Tympanic Membrane Perforation: The Daily PANCE Blueprint

The answer is C. Reassure the patient and provide supportive care

A perforated tympanic membrane is defined by some sort of breach/tear between the ear canal and the middle ear. Etiologies include mechanical trauma, barotrauma (e.g., scuba diving or air travel), or infection. Clinical features include sudden, acute otalgia, otorrhea, tinnitus and vertigo. The most common location for a perforated TM is the pars tensa, as it is the largest and thinnest area of the TM. Most perforations resolve on their own without complications, and treatment is generally supportive. Routine antibiotics are not necessary. Complications such as mastoiditis, cholesteatoma, otitis media, and hearing loss could technically occur (albeit rarely).