immittance
Pronunciation: ih-MIT-ans
Umbrella term for impedance and admittance measurements of middle ear function, including tympanometry and acoustic reflex testing.
Full Definition
Immittance encompasses both impedance (opposition to sound flow) and admittance (ease of sound flow) measurements used to evaluate middle ear function objectively. Immittance testing includes tympanometry, which measures eardrum mobility and middle ear pressure, and acoustic reflex testing, which assesses stapedius muscle function. These measurements provide diagnostic information about middle ear pathology, eustachian tube function, and auditory nerve integrity independent of patient behavioral responses. Immittance audiometry is particularly valuable for pediatric populations, patients with cognitive impairments, and verification of pure-tone audiometry findings. Modern immittance meters can perform multifrequency and multicomponent measurements for enhanced diagnostic precision.
Usage
Usage note: Preferred term over 'impedance audiometry' in contemporary clinical practice; encompasses broader range of measurements.
In Context
- "Immittance testing revealed normal middle ear function bilaterally with present acoustic reflexes." — Comprehensive audiological evaluation
- "The clinic's new immittance system provides wideband tympanometry capabilities for improved diagnostics." — Equipment specifications document