Tympanosclerosis, fibrosis and adhesions of the middle ear

THE CONTEXT

These changes can impair the mobility of middle ear structures; fibrosis and adhesions can also obstruct the eustachian tube.

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Tympanosclerosis is hyalinization followed by calcification of subepithelial connective tissue.

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It occurs in tympanic membrane remnants or beneath the middle ear mucosa.

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White chalky deposits may occur on the promontory, ossicles, joints, tendons, and oval and round windows.

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Tympanosclerotic masses may restrict the mobility of these structures and cause conductive deafness.

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Fibrosis and adhesions result from healing and may further impair ossicular chain mobility or block the eustachian tube.

NEETx

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