Otosclerosis Otosclerosis is a disease of the ear characterised by new formation of spongy bone tissue in the middle ear.

The new formation of spongy bone tissue results in gradual fixation of the stirrup in the oval window and leads to a conductive hearing loss. In severe cases the inner ear is also involved.

Characteristic signs of otosclerosis

Otosclerosis is a hereditary disease and affects both ears in 80% of the cases. Otosclerosis is slightly more common in women than men. The symptoms may be somewhat aggravated by hormonal changes, for example during puberty or pregnancy.

Treatment

Otosclerosis can often be surgically corrected when the growth of tissue has stopped. Otherwise, hearing aids can help treat the associated hearing loss.

SEE ALSO:

Conductive hearing loss

Hearing

Hearing, a tour of the ear