Tympanosclerosis of the ear drum. A scanning electronmicroscopic study

15 specimens from tympanosclerotic ear drums were studied by scanning electron microscope. Comparative studies were made in 5 normal ear drums and 21 specimens from ear drums in secretory otitis media. Calcification of the ear drum affected mainly the fibrous layer. The submucosa seemed stiff with congested vessels. The degeneration and calcification in the fibrous layer started medially near the submucosa, involving the inner circular fibres first. Signs of regeneration were seen, with fibrocyte-like cells producing fibrils.