How To Read And Interpret Normal And Abnormal Tympanogram Results

Compliance is the flexibility of the eardrum when different air pressures are introduced. The level of flexibility indicates how effectively sound is transmitted into the middle ear.

Results will be in decimal format and range from 0. 2 to 2. 5 cm3.

Normal results always have a single sharp peak. Double peaks indicate scarring of the eardrum. The patient should repeat the test to confirm this. Rounded peaks also indicate patients should retake the test. [7] X Research source

A normal Admittance/Compliance (y axis) reading: 0. 3 to 1. 6 cm3. A normal Middle Ear Pressure (x axis) reading: +50 to -50 daPa. A normal Ear Canal Volume (ECV) reading: 0. 6 to 2. 5 cm3.

A peak that falls between +100 and -100 daPa. A Compliance (y axis) reading under 0. 3 ml. ECV of up to 0. 4 cm3. [10] X Research source

A peak that falls between +100 and -100 daPa. A Compliance (y axis) reading over 1. 5 ml. ECV of up to 1. 6 cm3. [12] X Research source

Regular Type B results will show a normal ear canal volume (ECV). Other possible causes of Type B results: stiffness of the eardrum (from scarring), tympanosclerosis (the formation of dense connective tissue around the auditory ossicles), cholesteatoma, or middle ear tumor. [14] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Family Physicians Organization devoted to improving the health of patients, families, and communities Go to source

Ear canal volume (ECV) will exceed 1. 5 cm3. Type B High is sometimes referred to as Type B Large. [16] X Research source

Type C results will show a peak below -100 daPa. Compliance (y axis) reading from 0. 3-1. 5 ml.