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Definition
Otosclerosis is the growth of abnormal new bone in the inner ear bones needed for hearing. This growth prevents proper functioning of ear structures. Hearing loss can occur when the new bone changes the shape of the stapes and other ear small bones reducing their movement. This is a common cause of hearing loss.
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Causes
The cause of otosclerosis is still unknown, but genetics appears to play a role.
Risk Factors
Otosclerosis is more common in females. It is most likely to happen in people in their teens through late 40s. Other factors that may increase chance of otosclerosis include:
- Family history of otosclerosis
- Viral infections, including measles
- Hormonal factors, such as pregnancy
- Drinking nonfluoridated water—some studies suggest that nonfluoridated water may cause a susceptible person to develop otosclerosis
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
You will be asked 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
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. This operation is usually done with replacement of 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.
Other surgical treatment may include stapedectomy, circumferential stapes mobilization surgery, or cochlear implantation.
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 methods include:
- Drinking fluoridated water
- Getting the measles vaccination
RESOURCES:
American Academy of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery
http://www.entnet.org
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
http://www.asha.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Society of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery
http://www.entcanada.org
The College of Family Physicians of Canada
http://www.cfpc.ca
REFERENCES:
Otosclerosis. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at:https://www.dynamed.com/condition/otosclerosis. Updated November 18, 2016. Accessed August 22, 2017.
Otosclerosis. Massachusetts Eye and Ear website. Available at: http://www.masseyeandear.org/for-patients/patient-guide/patient-education/diseases-and-conditions/otosclerosis. Accessed August 22, 2017.
Otosclerosis. National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) website. Available at: http://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/hearing/pages/otosclerosis.aspx. Updated March 6, 2017. Accessed August 22, 2017.
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 22, 2017.
Last reviewed September 2018 by EBSCO Medical Review Board Michael Woods, MD FAAP Last Updated: 7/15/2020