The lateral wall of the epitympanum (attic) is formed by which structure?
- A Tympanic membrane
- B Scutum (outer attic wall / lateral epitympanic recess) ✓
- C Tegmen tympani
- D Mastoid antrum wall
Correct answer: B. Scutum (outer attic wall / lateral epitympanic recess)
Explanation
The scutum is the sharp bony spur forming the lateral wall of the epitympanum. Erosion of the scutum on CT is a hallmark of attic cholesteatoma. The tegmen tympani forms the roof, and the tympanic membrane is the lateral wall of the mesotympanum only.
Reference: Dhingra Diseases of Ear, Nose and Throat, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.