Prussak's space (superior recess of the tympanic membrane) is the most common site of origin of pars flaccida cholesteatoma. Which anatomical structure forms the roof of Prussak's space?

• A The long process of the incus
• B The tensor tympani tendon
• C The tympanic annulus
• D The lateral malleolar fold (lateral ligament of malleus) ✓

Explanation

Prussak's space is a small recess in the epitympanum (attic) bounded superiorly by the lateral malleolar fold (lateral ligament of the malleus), laterally by the pars flaccida (Shrapnell's membrane), medially by the neck of the malleus, and inferiorly by the short process of the malleus. This space is significant because retraction pockets in the pars flaccida invaginate into Prussak's space to form pars flaccida (attic) cholesteatoma — the most common type. Understanding these boundaries guides surgical access during atticotomy.

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.