Introduction:
Current consensus statement on Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) distinguishes between
three subtypes of chronical ETD: dilatory ETD, baro-challenge-induced ETD, and patulous
ETD. The determination of these subtypes in daily routines is based on symptoms of
the patient, otoscopy, epipharyngoscopy, tympanometry, pure tone audiometry and Valsalva's
test. On basis of these examinations it is often not sufficient to clearly diagnose
the subtype. The pressure chamber was evaluated to determine different subtypes of
ETD.
Methods:
17 patients undergone a standardized pressure profile. During pressure increase and
decrease the tympanic membrane impedance was measured and the pressure curve during
the five-minute lasting measurement was analyzed.
Results:
By interpretation of the pattern of the continuous impedance of the tympanic membrane
it was possible to distinguish between subtypes of ETD. Patients with patulous ETD
and baro-challenged ETD could clearly be identified. The remaining patients were classified
as dilatory ETD.
Conclusions:
Patients suffering from ETD could be measured objectively in a pressure chamber. Subtypes
of ETD could be identified. These results could add important additional information
to the existing diagnostics and are a relevant preliminary work to identify and assess
patients for different therapy Options in the future.
