Eustachian tube dysfunction: differential diagnosis

Boiko N.V.

doi:https://doi.org/10.17116/otorino20259006189

OBJECTIVE

To analyze types and clinical symptoms of Eustachian tube dysfunction in aspect of differential diagnosis with other disorders presenting with similar symptoms.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A bibliographic search in the RSCI, PubMed, ScienceDirect databases using the following keywords: auditory tube dysfunction, patulous auditory tube, ear congestion, autophony, tinnitus has been conducted.

RESULTS

In patients with ear congestion, autophony, popping noise, crackling, it is necessary to conduct a differential diagnosis between the types of Eustachian tube dysfunction (dilatory Eustachian tube dysfunction, baro-challenge-induced Eustachian tube dysfunction or patulous auditory tube). Other causes of similar symptoms (Minor’s syndrome, cochlear hydrops, temporomandibular joint dysfunction) should be considered.

CONCLUSION

Eustachian tube dysfunction is a violation of the regulation of pressure in the tympanic cavity, and may also be a mechanism of middle ear disease.

Keywords:

Eustachian tube dysfunction

patulous auditory tube

ear congestion

autophony

tinnitus

Authors:

Boiko N.V.

Rostov State Medical University

ORCID: 0000-0002-1316-5061

Received:

05.02.2025

Accepted:

08.04.2025

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References:

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