Otosclerosis

Hereditary disorder in which new bony deposits occur within the stapes footplate and the cochlear, resulting in gradual onset hearing loss

Aetiology

  • Characteristically seen in the 2nd-3rd decade
  • More common in women
    • Linked to high oestrogen - can be triggered/deteriorates more rapidly in pregancy
  • Familial link

Clinical presentation

  • Gradual onset hearing loss

Investigations

  • Audiometry - conductive or mixed hearing loss
  • A classic feature is Carhart's notch at 2KHz
notion image

Management

  • Hearing aids
  • Stapedectomy