Tympanic membrane
The tympanic membrane is the eardrum.
Quick definition
A thin, semi-transparent membrane that separates the external ear canal from the middle ear and transmits sound vibrations to the middle ear bones.
Main functions
- Converts sound waves into mechanical vibrations
- Protects the middle ear from debris and pathogens
- Helps maintain pressure dynamics with the middle ear system
Key anatomy
- Pars tensa: larger, tense lower part
- Pars flaccida: smaller, lax upper part
- Attached to the malleus (one of the ossicles)
- Typical normal color: pearly gray on otoscopic exam
Common clinical relevance
- Otitis media: bulging, erythematous membrane
- Perforation: hole/tear from infection, trauma, barotrauma
- Retraction: inward pulling with Eustachian tube dysfunction
If you want, I can also give you:
- a labeled diagram-style description,
- otoscopic landmarks to identify a normal TM, or
- a comparison table of normal vs abnormal findings.
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