[Comprehensive diagnostics of the patients presenting with Eustachian tube dysfunction]

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) significantly impacts patient quality of life.
• Accurate diagnosis of ETD requires evaluating associated upper airway conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct comprehensive diagnostics for Eustachian tube dysfunction.
• To identify the prevalence of concomitant pathologies in patients with ETD.

Main Methods:

• Utilized standard diagnostic techniques, active anterior rhinomanometry, audiometry, and tympanometry.
• Employed three-dimensional computed tomography (3D X-ray CT) for detailed assessment of nasal structures and paranasal sinuses.
• Examined 82 patients diagnosed with Eustachian tube dysfunction.

Main Results:

• A high comorbidity rate was observed, with 96.3% of patients presenting with concurrent paranasal sinus, nasal cavity, or nasopharyngeal pathology.
• Nasal breathing difficulties were reported by 62% of the patients.
• Audiometry and tympanometry indicated varying degrees of middle ear involvement.

Conclusions:

• Eustachian tube dysfunction frequently coexists with pathologies of the nasal cavity, nasopharynx, and paranasal sinuses.
• Comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, including advanced imaging, is crucial for managing ETD effectively.
• Addressing associated upper airway conditions may be essential for improving ETD treatment outcomes.