OTOSCLEROSIS

General Information

DEFINITION--Slow formation of abnormal spongy bone growth in the middle ear. The growth prevents one of the small bones in the middle ear from vibrating sound waves, leading to hearing loss.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Middle-ear bones and nerves in the ear that allow us to hear. Otosclerosis usually affects both ears.

SEX OR AGE MOST AFFECTED

• Both sexes, but twice as likely in females.
• All ages, but most common from ages 15 to 30.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• Slow, progressive hearing loss.
• Ringing in the ears.
• Hearing that is better in noisy environments than quiet ones.

CAUSES--Appears to be inherited. 60% of those affected have positive family history.

RISK INCREASES WITH

• Family history of hearing loss.
• Caucasian heritage. Otosclerosis affects to some degree about 10% of all white people.
• Pregnancy, which may trigger the onset.

HOW TO PREVENT--Cannot be prevented at present. Obtain genetic counseling before starting a family if you or your spouse have otosclerosis.

What To Expect

DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES--

• Your own observation of symptoms.
• Medical history and physical exam by a doctor.
• Laboratory studies such as audiogram and Rinne test (See Glossary for both).

APPROPRIATE HEALTH CARE

• Doctor's treatment.
• Treatment usually involves surgery to remove the stapes (a bone in the middle ear) and replace it with a prosthesis. The hearing is corrected (or partially corrected) in most cases.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS--Total deafness in 10 to 15 years without treatment. The younger the patient, the more rapid the hearing loss.

PROBABLE OUTCOME--In most cases, hearing is at least partially restored with surgery.

How To Treat

GENERAL MEASURES--

• A hearing aid may be used as an alternative to surgery.
• See Resources for Additional Information.

MEDICATION--Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics after surgery.

ACTIVITY--After surgery, resume your normal activities gradually.

DIET--No special diet.

Call Your Doctor If

• You have symptoms of otosclerosis.
• Signs of infection, such as fever, pain or excessive dizziness, develop after treatment.