Tympanometry
Pronunciation: tim-puh-NOM-uh-tree
An objective clinical test that measures middle-ear function by assessing the compliance of the tympanic membrane in response to changes in air pressure.
Full Definition
Tympanometry is performed with a probe inserted into the ear canal that varies air pressure while measuring the reflected acoustic energy from the tympanic membrane. The result is plotted as a tympanogram, with compliance (in millilitres or cubic centimetres) on the vertical axis and pressure (in decaPascals) on the horizontal axis. Type A tympanograms indicate normal middle-ear function; Type B suggests fluid or perforation; Type C indicates negative middle-ear pressure. Editors should note that the test document is the 'tympanogram', while the procedure is 'tympanometry'—these terms are frequently confused in clinical manuscripts.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish carefully between 'tympanometry' (the procedure) and 'tympanogram' (the resulting document/graph). Do not use interchangeably in clinical copy.
In Context
- "Tympanometry revealed a Type B tympanogram bilaterally, consistent with otitis media with effusion." — Otolaryngology referral letter
- "The author wrote 'audiogram' when the test performed was tympanometry; these are distinct procedures and documents." — Copy-editing note