The Role of Mastoid Pneumatization in the Pathogenesis of Tympanosclerosis

Tympanosclerosis is an abnormal connective tissue reaction with hyaline degeneration and calcification in the tympanic membrane and submucosa of the middle ear. It is an irreversible, non-spesific end-result chronic inflammation or infection of the middle ear. The process occurs in the lamina propria layer of submucosa. A homogenous mass takes place by thickening and fusion of the collagenous fibrils in lamina propria layer. An accumulation of calcium and phosphorus gradually takes place, leading to crystallization and tympanosclerosis . Tympanosclerotic degeneration may damage the middle ear both anatomically and functionally. Tympanosclerotic masses may assume clinical importance by interfering with the transmission of sound vibrations across the middle ear structures and may also affect the hearing results of middle ear surgical operations.