Effect of chronic sinusitis on middle ear functions—a descriptive study

Abstract Aim The present study aims to assess the effect of chronic sinusitis on middle-ear functions. Material and methods A prospective observational study was conducted on chronic sinusitis patients attended in ENT OPD at a tertiary care hospital from January 2023 to June 2024. The protocol of the study was approved by the Institutional Ethical Committee. Patients above 18 years of age with chronic rhinosinusitis diagnosed on clinical history were included. The diagnostic nasal endoscopy, CT paranasal sinus, pure-tone audiometry and impedance audiometry were done. Data was collected in case record form and analyzed. Results In the present study, mean age was 36.5 ± 13.8 years with female preponderance. Common presenting complaints were headache, fluctuating hearing loss, non-purulent nasal discharge and tinnitus. 41.6% were with non-patent/partially patent eustachian tube. Grade 2 retraction of tympanic membrane was seen in 27.5%. According to LM scores, 42.73% patients demonstrated extensive disease. Statistically significant association was seen between LM Score severity and eustachian tube dysfunction. Impedance audiometry showed type C curve in 37.5%. Type C curve was commonly seen in ethmoid and sphenoid sinusitis. Statistically significant association was seen between chronic sinusitis for > 3 years duration and type C curve, also between mastoid sclerosis and type C curve. The osteomeatal complex was obstructed in 56% of chronic sinusitis. The conductive hearing loss was seen in 62.5% Conclusion The study highlights the importance of early diagnosis and management of chronic sinusitis to prevent its impact on middle-ear health.