In impedance audiometry, a type 'As' tympanogram (shallow peak) suggests:

• A Eustachian tube dysfunction with negative middle ear pressure
• B Ossicular chain discontinuity with increased compliance
• C Fluid in the middle ear (otitis media with effusion)
• D Stiffness of the ossicular chain or tympanic membrane as in otosclerosis or tympanosclerosis ✓

Explanation

Tympanogram types: Type A = normal; Type As = shallow peak (reduced compliance/stiffness), seen in otosclerosis, tympanosclerosis, or healed tympanic membrane thickening; Type Ad = deep/flaccid peak (high compliance), seen in ossicular chain discontinuity or flaccid tympanic membrane; Type B = flat, seen in middle ear effusion or perforated tympanic membrane; Type C = peak displaced to negative pressure, seen in Eustachian tube dysfunction. Type As reflects a stiff system with reduced displacement of the tympanic membrane.

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.