Retraction pockets of the tympanic membrane – introduction to the development of cholesteatoma

Abstract

The tympanic membrane retraction pocket is a phenomenon that is described as a deformation of the tympanic membrane (most often hollow) caused by long persistent negative pressure inside the tympanic cavity. There are many theories about the pathomechanism of the formation of retraction pockets, but the most probable seems to be the one that which talks about pockets as a natural attempt by the body to heal inflammation in the tympanic cavity. Most untreated retraction pockets can lead to the development of cholesteatoma, which is so important knowing the classification of pockets. Due to it, it is possible to properly assess pathology and apply an appropriate treatment. There is no standardized scheme to the treatment of retraction pockets. Everything depends on the severity of the disease as well as on the co-occurrence of the upper respiratory tract infections or ear effusion.