Standard and multiple-frequency tympanometric norms in Chinese young and older adults

Abstract

ABSTRACT The normative data of standard and multiple-frequency tympanometry should be established depending on gender, age, race and specific recording parameters. However, the lack of normative data of standard and multiple-frequency tympanometry was documented in Chinese older adults. Previous studies which conducted the normative data from Southern Chinese young adults may not represent the Chinese young and older adults in Taiwan. The purpose of this study is to establish the norms of standard and multiple-frequency tympanometry in Chinese young and older adults. The effects of age and gender are investigated for understanding the characteristics of normative data of tympanometry. A total of 100 young adults and 100 older adults with normal middle ear status were recruited from the community in Taiwan. The data of peak Ytm, Vea and TW were obtained by a 226 Hz probe tone. Multiple-frequency tympanometry was recorded by 226, 678 and 1000 Hz probe tones and categorized by the Vanhuyse model. The resonance frequency was obtained by the method of sweep-pressure. The two-way independent ANOVA was used separately to examine the effects of age and gender on each of the tympanometric measures. The effect of gender was found in Ytm, Vea and TW, while the effect of age was only found in Vea. Older adults have more complex patterns of multiple-frequency tympanometry and have significantly lower resonance frequency than young adults do. Results suggest that the middle ear system status changes with aging. The norms, especially gender-specific norms, are needed for Chinese older adults for interpretation.