Latent high jugular bulb: case report and significance of neck compression test

High jugular bulb is a vascular anomaly seen in the middle ear. In typical cases, the jugular bulb is easily observed through the tympanic membrane. We report here 3 patients with nontypical high jugular bulb. Their tympanic membranes were almost normal but protruded externally with pulsation when their necks were compressed. Computed tomography (CT) revealed jugular bulb protrusion into the tympanic cavities. We propose that this condition be named 'latent high jugular bulb'. Neck compression easily detects this condition and may also be useful in the detection of other disorders of the middle ear that are related to the venous system.