Anomalies of the middle and inner ear

Otolaryngol Clin North Am. 2007 Feb;40(1):81-96, vi. doi: 10.1016/j.otc.2006.10.006.

Abstract

The development of the middle and inner ear highlights the intricacy of embryology. As early as 3 weeks after fertilization, the inner ear begins taking form. This process, along with development of the middle ear, continues throughout gestation. At birth, the middle ear, inner ear, and associated structures are almost adult size. An understanding of the embryologic development of the ear serves as a foundation for evaluating and managing congenital malformations of these structures. The focus of this article is the normal, abnormal, and arrested development of the middle and inner ear, with a clinical emphasis on malformed middle and inner ear structures and a discussion of associated syndromes.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cochlea / abnormalities
  • Ear Ossicles / abnormalities
  • Ear, Inner / abnormalities*
  • Ear, Inner / embryology
  • Ear, Middle / abnormalities*
  • Ear, Middle / embryology
  • Hearing Loss, Sensorineural / genetics
  • Hearing Loss, Sensorineural / pathology
  • Humans
  • Mastoid / embryology
  • Membrane Transport Proteins / genetics
  • Stapedius / blood supply
  • Sulfate Transporters
  • Syndrome
  • Vestibular Aqueduct / abnormalities

Substances

  • Membrane Transport Proteins
  • SLC26A4 protein, human
  • Sulfate Transporters