A tympanogram showing negative middle-ear pressure with normal compliance most likely indicates which type?

A tympanogram showing negative middle-ear pressure with normal compliance most likely indicates which type?

• A. Type A
• B. Type B
• C. Type C
• D. Type Ad

Answer: (C)

A tympanogram with a peak at negative middle-ear pressure and normal compliance reflects Eustachian tube dysfunction while the tympanic membrane can still move normally. The negative pressure indicates the middle ear is vented less effectively, pulling the peak to the left of 0, but normal compliance means mobility is intact. This combination is characteristic of a Type C tympanogram. In contrast, Type A would have the peak near atmospheric pressure with normal mobility, Type B would be a flat curve indicating little to no mobility (often due to fluid or perforation), and Type Ad would show unusually high compliance with normal pressure (hyperflaccid tympanic membrane).

A tympanogram with a peak at negative middle-ear pressure and normal compliance reflects Eustachian tube dysfunction while the tympanic membrane can still move normally. The negative pressure indicates the middle ear is vented less effectively, pulling the peak to the left of 0, but normal compliance means mobility is intact. This combination is characteristic of a Type C tympanogram.

In contrast, Type A would have the peak near atmospheric pressure with normal mobility, Type B would be a flat curve indicating little to no mobility (often due to fluid or perforation), and Type Ad would show unusually high compliance with normal pressure (hyperflaccid tympanic membrane).