Multiple-frequency tympanometry in children with otitis media with effusion

ORL J Otorhinolaryngol Relat Spec. 1996 Mar-Apr;58(2):78-81. doi: 10.1159/000276803.

Abstract

Multifrequency tympanograms were recorded from 76 ears of 43 children affected by otitis media with effusion (OME) and 90 ears of normal-hearing children to obtain data for resonance frequency (RF) and changes in phase angle. There was found to be a statistically significant decrease (p < 0.01) in both RF values and change in phase angle in ears with OME compared to normative data. This decrease may be interpreted by considering OME as a mass pathology. Multiple-frequency tympanometry seems to be a useful method for determining the effect of various middle-ear pathologies on the mechano-acoustical status of the middle-ear system.

MeSH terms

  • Acoustic Impedance Tests / methods*
  • Adolescent
  • Age Factors
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Female
  • Hearing Loss, Conductive / diagnosis
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Otitis Media with Effusion / diagnosis*
  • Reference Values
  • Sex Factors