Dysfunction of the eustachian tube: The Daily PANCE Blueprint

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Dysfunction of the eustachian tube: The Daily PANCE Blueprint

A 10-year-old male presents to the clinic with his parents. For the past few days, he has had ear “fullness,” intermittent ear pain, and random popping of his ears. He mentions he had a “bad cold” a week ago. The otoscopic exam is unimpressive. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

A. Acute otitis media
B. Otitis media with effusion
C. Otitis externa
D. Eustachian tube dysfunction
E. Mastoiditis

Answer and topic summary

The answer is D. Eustachian tube dysfunction

The eustachian tube (ET) is a tube that connects the middle ear to the nasopharynx. It equalizes pressure, protects the middle ear, and clears out secretions. When it is dysfunctional (aka eustachian tube dysfunction, ETD), the valves in the ET fail to open or close properly. Etiologies include allergies, upper respiratory infections, and GERD. Clinical features of ETD include ear fullness, hearing loss (conductive), sharp ear pain, and popping of the ears. A definitive diagnosis is made with a tympanogram. Treatment may include NSAIDs, decongestants, and eventually surgery if conservative measures fail.

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Covered under => PANCE Blueprint EENT ⇒ Inner ear ⇒ Dysfunction of the eustachian tube

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