Definition of Tonic tensor tympani syndrome
Tonic tensor tympani syndrome is a hypothesized syndrome of the tensor tympani muscle. The tensor tympani muscle is one of the two middle ear muscles that support the three middle ear bones, called the ossicles. TTTS involves tensor tympani muscle activity being reduced, leading to a decrease in the contraction threshold of the tensor tympani which is exaggerated by high stress levels. This hyper-contraction (or spasms) leads to chronic ear pain, in particular in the case of hyperacusis and acoustic shock. TTTS is considered to be a secondary consequence of temporomandibular disorder and temporomandibular joint dysfunction. TTTS is commonly confused with middle ear myoclonus.
Terms mentioned above
Related terms
Evolution of mammalian auditory ossicles
The evolution of mammalian auditory ossicles was an evolutionary process that resulted…
Incus
The incus (pl.: incudes) or anvil in the ear is one of three small bones (ossicles) in…
Ear
In vertebrates, an ear is the organ that enables hearing and (in mammals) body balance…
Wolfram syndrome
Wolfram syndrome, also called DIDMOAD (diabetes insipidus, diabetes mellitus, optic…
Conductive hearing loss
Conductive hearing loss (CHL) is a type of hearing impairment that occurs when sound…
Tympanometry
Tympanometry is an acoustic evaluation of the condition of the middle ear eardrum…
Hurler syndrome
Hurler syndrome, also known as mucopolysaccharidosis Type IH (MPS-IH), Hurler's disease…
Acoustic reflex
The acoustic reflex (also known as the stapedius reflex, stapedial reflex, auditory…
Pyramidal eminence
The pyramidal eminence is a hollow conical projection upon the posterior wall of the…
Frequently asked questions
What is Tonic tensor tympani syndrome?
Tonic tensor tympani syndrome is a hypothesized syndrome of the tensor tympani muscle. The tensor tympani muscle is one of the two middle ear muscles that support the three middle ear bones, called the ossicles.