Objective Tinnitus Concomitant with Eye Blinking: A Case Report

• Published in: Journal of audiology & otology Vol. 19; no. 2; pp. 101 - 103
• Main Authors: Kim, Tae Hwan, Jang, Ho Joon, Park, Soon Hyung, Nam, Sung-Il
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Korea (South) The Korean Audiological Society 01.09.2015; 대한청각학회
• Subjects: Case Report; 이비인후과학; Middle ear myoclonus; Tympanometry; Tinnitus
• ISSN: 2384-1621; 2384-1710
• DOI: 10.7874/jao.2015.19.2.101

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.