The otological aspects of palatal myoclonus

Palatal myoclonus with its concomittant objective tinnitus is often a missed diagnosis and poses a problem to the clinician in separating it from other middle ear anomalies. The etiology and symptomatology is outlined, but as suggested by our case presentations are not always diagnostic. The anatomical pathways of palatal myoclonus are traced, and its etiological complexities are realized when any locus or pathology along these tracks may create the characteristic chronic rhythmic contractions. We have experienced excellent results in determining a differential diagnosis of palatal myoclonus from other middle ear problems by the correlations of impedance audiometry with our clinical findings. Although the etiology is not defined the target structures can be separated from this test method and, therefore, enable more specific therapy.