Acoustic Neuroma
Benign tumor of CN VIII (schwannoma). Hearing loss, tinnitus, vertigo, and presence of tumor on CT or MRI.
Acute Mastoiditis
Bacterial infection in the mastoid process with the same signs and symptoms as acute otitis media plus inflammation and tenderness over the mastoid. Hearing loss is common.
Acute Otitis Externa
Infection of the outer ear (“swimmer’s ear”). Inflammation and pain of the outer ear; tugging on the pinna is painful.
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo
Brief vertigo triggered by head position changes. Diagnosed with the Dix-Hallpike Maneuver. Positive if nystagmus, nausea, or vertigo. Treated with Epley’s Maneuver.
Eustachian Tube Block
Retraction of the tympanic membrane.
Meniere’s Disease
Recurrent prostrating vertigo, sensory hearing loss, tinnitus, and ear fullness.
Presbycussis
Sensorineural hearing loss associated with aging; influenced by genetic or acquired factors.
Purulent Otitis Media (Bacterial Otitis Media)
Middle ear infection. Tympanic membrane is red, with dilated blood vessels and bulging.
Serous Otitis Media
Chronic effusion in the middle ear from unresolved acute otitis media or Eustachian tube obstruction. Amber fluid with bubbles.
Tinnitus
Ringing in the ears.
Vertigo
Sensation of rotary movement with difficulty in balance, gait, and navigation.