Effect of Body Mass Index on Middle Ear Resonance Frequency.

OBJECTIVE Multifrequency tympanometry (MFT) analyzes tympanograms obtained using different probe tones between 226 and 2000 Hz. An important parameter of MFT is resonance frequency (RF). Studies have recently demonstrated that the RF value can vary depending on many factors. To provide new data regarding MFT, middle ear RF values were investigated with regard to body mass index (BMI). MATERIALS AND METHODS This study included 78 volunteers (i.e., 156 ears) aged 18-40 years who did not have hearing loss and whose otoscopic examinations were normal. Hearing thresholds were measured using pure tone audiometry, and RF values were recorded with immitansmetric measurements. The participants were divided into the following three groups according to their BMI: <18.5 kg/m2, Group 1; 18.5-24.9 kg/m2, Group 2; and >25 kg/m2, Group 3. The RF values were also analyzed. RESULTS Although there was no significant difference between Groups 1 and 2 in terms of RF values, a significant difference was observed between Groups 1 and 3 and between Groups 2 and 3. CONCLUSION In the light of these data, BMI values should be considered when middle ear RF values are assessed.