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Tympanometry - Results

Alternative Names

Tympanogram

Normal Values:

The pressure inside the middle ear can vary by 100 daPa (a very small amount). The eardrum should look smooth.

What abnormal results mean:

Tympanometry may reveal any of the following:

A tumor in the middle ear
Fluid in the middle ear
Impacted ear wax
Lack of contact between the conduction bones of the middle ear
Perforated ear drum
Scarring of the tympanic membrane

Ear anatomy

Otoscope examination

Reviewed last on: 4/26/2010
Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Seidman MD, Simpson GT II, Khan MJ. Common problems of the ear. In: Noble J, eds. Textbook of Primary Care Medicine. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2001:chap 178.

Cummings CW, Flint PW, Haughey BH, et al. Otolaryngology: Head & Neck Surgery. 4th ed. St Louis, Mo; Mosby; 2005:3514.

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