J Audiol Otol.
2015 Sep;19(2):101-103. 10.7874/jao.2015.19.2.101.
Objective Tinnitus Concomitant with Eye Blinking: A Case Report
- Affiliations
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- 1Department of Otolaryngology, School of Medicine, Keimyung University, Daegu, Korea. entnamsi@dsmc.or.kr
- KMID: 2052090
- DOI: http://doi.org/10.7874/jao.2015.19.2.101
Abstract
- Tinnitus is a common auditory phenomenon associated with many otological diseases, and is usually subjective. Objective tinnitus can be generated by para-auditory structures, usually derived from vascular or myogenic sources, or the eustachian tube. We present a rare case of intermittent unilateral tinnitus associated with eye blinking. Otoendoscopic examination showed that the external auditory canals and tympanic membranes were normal; however, rhythmic movements of both tympanic membranes, concomitant with the tinnitus, were evident whenever the patient blinked. The tympanometry and stapedial reflexes measured via impedance audiometry exhibited saw-tooth patterns; movement of the tympanic membrane was associated with eyelid blinking. The patient was managed conservatively, with reassurance and medication, and the condition became well-controlled. Here, we present this educational case and review the literature.
