View Full Article | Source: Medscape
Otosclerosis is an osseous dyscrasia limited to the temporal bone that results in slow, progressive conductive hearing loss. A full audiometric evaluation, including impedance testing, is required to evaluate patients for the condition. In addition, computed tomography (CT) scanning of the temporal bone can often demonstrate foci of demineralization in the otic capsule in cases of cochlear otosclerosis. [1]
Signs and symptoms of otosclerosis
Symptom onset usually occurs by the early third decade of life, but onset is not unusual in later years. Symptoms include slowly progressive hearing loss, which is bilateral in 70% of cases. Vertigo is uncommon. Tinnitus may be present and often resolves after successful surgical management.
Otosclerosis is often associated with osteogenesis imperfecta (van der Hoeve syndrome) in a classic triad of hearing loss (conductive, mixed, or sensorineural), spontaneous bone fractures, and blue sclera.