The middle ear in long-term dialysis

When fluctuating middle ear fluid was observed in patients receiving long-term dialysis, the dialysis was suspected as the potentiating factor. In a statewide survey, a significant number of ear, nose, and throat specialists were undecided about etiology. They were also uncertain about treatment choice and delivering services without consulting the managing nephrologist. Tympanograms obtained on an equal number of patients receiving hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis throughout two treatment sessions indicated measurements of middle ear impedance remain within the normal range. It was concluded that effusion in the middle ear of patients receiving dialysis is not related to dialysis procedures.