Tympanometry
TYMPM
Description
"Tympanometry" test checks how your eardrum responds to changes in air pressure to assess middle ear function. A small probe emits sounds and gently shifts pressure in the ear canal. If the eardrum moves poorly, it may indicate fluid buildup, infection, or a perforation. This test is useful for diagnosing eustachian tube dysfunction and monitoring chronic ear issues. Doctors use results to guide treatment plans, including medication, ear tubes, or hearing evaluations if needed.
Test Category
Ear Function
Procedure
Non-Invasive
Sample Type
No biological sample is needed for this test.
Units
Not Applicable
Procedure Category
Apply, Measure
Test Group
Vestibular and Auditory Assessment Group
Test Group Description
Vestibular and Auditory Assessment Group: Tests in this group assess the function of the vestibular system and auditory pathways, aiding in the diagnosis of balance and hearing disorders.
Optimal Range
For All Individuals:
Result: Negative: No abnormalities detected.
Normal Range
For All Individuals:
Result: Negative: No abnormalities detected.
Results That Differ From The Norm (Direct and Indirect Causes)
Abnormal results may indicate:
Cholesteatoma (Abnormal skin growth in the middle ear)
Eustachian tube dysfunction (Impaired function of the Eustachian tube)
Middle-ear effusion (Fluid buildup in the middle ear)
Middle-ear tumor (Tumor in the middle ear)
Otitis externa (Outer ear infection)
Otitis media (Middle ear infection)
Otosclerosis (Abnormal bone growth in the middle ear)
Serous otitis media (Non-infected fluid buildup in the middle ear)
Temporal bone fractures
Tympanic membrane perforation (Hole or tear in the eardrum)
Tympanosclerosis (Scarring of the eardrum)
Key Reasons For Testing
Middle Ear Function Assessment: Evaluates eardrum mobility and middle ear function, providing essential diagnostic insights.
Diagnosis of Middle Ear Disorders: Detects conditions like otitis media and eustachian tube dysfunction by assessing middle ear pressure and compliance.
Hearing Loss Differentiation: Distinguishes between conductive, sensorineural, and mixed hearing losses.
Fluid Build-Up Monitoring: Identifies fluid accumulation in the middle ear to prevent complications.
Otitis Media Screening: Screens for otitis media, enabling early detection and management.
Health Status Conditions It May Be Used To Assess
Currently, this test is not directly associated with any conditions listed on the Health Status page. However, it may be included as part of a broader set of tests linked to specific health conditions.
Some Prominent Medical Labs That May Offer This Test
Please note that this particular test has not been associated with any of the listed prominent medical labs. We recommend enquiring with your private physician or nearest hospital to determine where this specific test can be performed.
References
Important Note
Any medical procedure yielding results outside the norm may be directly or indirectly linked to the conditions outlined on this page. Various factors, including genetics, medication and supplement usage, recent illnesses, pregnancy, pre-test eating, smoking, and stress, can impact the test's outcome. Additionally, factors like false positives, false negatives, inaccurate analyses, and others can influence results.
Reference ranges, which help healthcare professionals interpret medical tests, may vary depending on age, gender, and other factors. They may also differ between laboratories due to variations in instruments and methods used. Optimal ranges are designed for preventive purposes, aiming to identify trends and potential risks early, while normal ranges reflect conventional laboratory values indicating no current disease or pathology. Your healthcare practitioner may have specific reasons for testing that deviate from the usual or may interpret results differently based on individual circumstances. Proper interpretation typically involves considering clinical findings and other diagnostic tests. Hence, it is crucial to provide your healthcare professionals with a comprehensive medical history, consult with them for result interpretation, and follow their guidance for potential re-testing or additional diagnostics.
Disclaimer
This content is provided solely for informative and educational purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice or treatment from a personal physician. Regarding the interpretation of their medical test results and/or specific health questions, it is recommended that all readers and viewers consult their physicians or other qualified health professionals. The publisher is not responsible for any adverse health effects that may result from reading or following the information in this educational content. Before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program, all viewers, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their physician or health care practitioner.
Please note that while prominent lab names are included in this content, we cannot guarantee that these labs offer all the tests mentioned. For confirmation, individuals should contact the labs directly or consult their medical practitioners. The information provided reflects general knowledge at the time of publication and may not include recent updates or emerging research. Readers should verify details with qualified professionals to ensure the most up-to-date and accurate guidance.
[1] Margolis RH, Hunter LL. Tympanometry: Basic Principles and Clinical Applications. Otolaryngol Clin North Am. 2008;41(4):567-583.
[2] Kei J. Tympanometry in Infants: Clinical Applications. Am J Audiol. 2012;21(2):251-264.
[3] Paradise JL, Smith CG, Bluestone CD. Tympanometric Detection of Middle Ear Effusion in Infants and Young Children. Pediatrics. 1976;58(2):198-210.
[4] Shanks J, Shohet J. Clinical Use of Tympanometry in Pediatrics: A Review. J Am Acad Audiol. 2009;20(4):251-265.
[5] Koebsell KA, Margolis RH, Popelka GR. Wideband Tympanometry: Principles and Clinical Applications. Am J Audiol. 2013;22(3):394-399.
[6] Wiley TL, Stoppenbach DT, Feldhake LJ, Moss KA, Thompson CL. Acoustic-Immittance Measures in Normal Ears. J Speech Hear Res. 1996;39(4):745-753.
[7] Hunter LL, Margolis RH. Multifrequency Tympanometry: Current Clinical Application. Am J Audiol. 1992;1(3):33-43.
[8] Thornton AR, Abbas PJ. Tympanometry in Normal and Pathologic Ears. Audiology. 1982;21(4):305-323.
[9] Holte L, Margolis RH, Cavanaugh RM. Developmental Changes in Multifrequency Tympanograms. Audiology. 1991;30(1):1-24.
[10] Aarts NL, Veldhuizen IJ. The Efficacy of Tympanometry for Middle Ear Disorders in a Pediatric Setting. Pediatrics. 2006;118(6):2367-2372.
[11] Hunter LL, Shahnaz N. Acoustic Immittance Measures: Basic and Advanced Practice. Audiol Med. 2014;12(1):3-16.
[12] Brookler KH, Pulec JL. Tympanometry in Otologic Diagnosis. Laryngoscope. 1975;85(10):1809-1817.
[13] Margolis RH, Heller JW. Screening Tympanometry: Criteria for Medical Referral. Audiology. 1987;26(4):197-208.