(Otospongiosis)
Definition
Definition
Otosclerosis is the growth of an abnormal new bone in the inner ear. This growth prevents proper functioning of ear structures. This condition is a common cause of hearing loss.
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Causes
Causes
The cause of otosclerosis is still unknown, but genetics appears to play a role.
Risk Factors
Risk Factors
Otosclerosis is more common in Caucasians, Asians, females, and in people in their teens through late 40s. Other factors that may increase chance of otosclerosis include:
- Family history of otosclerosis
- Drinking nonfluoridated water—some studies suggest that nonfluoridated water may cause a susceptible person to develop otosclerosis
- Hormonal factors, such as pregnancy
- Viral infections, including measles
Symptoms
Symptoms
Gradual hearing loss is the main symptom of otosclerosis. Hearing loss may be of 2 types:
- Conductive—involving the small bones of the inner ear
- Sensorineural—involving the cochlea, which is the sensory organ in the inner ear
Early in the disease, you may first notice trouble hearing low-pitched sounds or whispers. Other symptoms may include:
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done.
Your ears may be tested. This can be done with a hearing test.
Images may be taken of your ear. This can be done with:
Treatment
Treatment
Treatments may include:
Hearing Aid
Hearing aids may be effective for conductive and sensorineural hearing loss.
Surgery
In many cases, a procedure called a stapedectomy may improve hearing. The purpose of this operation is to replace the diseased bone with an artificial device that can transmit sound waves to the inner ear. Stapedectomy is effective and frequently returns hearing to a near normal level.
Oral Treatment
Fluoride tablets are sometimes prescribed to stabilize the condition and prevent further sensorineural hearing loss. However, this treatment remains controversial and unproven.
Prevention
Prevention
Prevention methods include:
- Drinking fluoridated water
- Getting the measles vaccination
RESOURCES:
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association http://www.asha.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
The College of Family Physicians of Canada http://www.cfpc.ca
References:
http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed
Updated April 22, 2014. Accessed August 4, 2015.
Otosclerosis. Massachusetts Eye and Ear website. Available at:
http://www.masseyeandear.org/for-patients/patient-guide/patient-education/diseases-and-conditions/otosclerosis
Accessed August 4, 2015.
Otosclerosis. National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) website. Available at:
http://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/hearing/pages/otosclerosis.aspx
Updated September 2013. Accessed August 4, 2015.
What you should know about otosclerosis. American Academy of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery website. Available at:
http://www.entnet.org/?q=node/1316
Accessed August 4, 2015.
Last Updated: 9/30/2013