Examination of Tympanic Membrane

Question 1

What is an Otoscope?

Answer 1

• Used to examine the ear

Question 2

Describe the appearance of a normal, healthy tympanic membrane.

Answer 2

• Concave, smooth, translucent, pearl gray
• Visible cone of light

Question 3

What is the cone of light?

Answer 3

• Not an anatomical feature, but is regarded as a hallmark of a healthy eardrum

Question 4

Where would you see the cone of light in a healthy right ear?

Answer 4

• 5 o’clock position

Question 5

Where would you see the cone of light in a healthy left ear?

Answer 5

• 7 o’clock position

Question 6

Describe the appearance of an abnormal tympanic membrane.

Answer 6

• Bulging or retracted
• Red, irritated, opaque (cloudy)
• Perforated
• Dull or absent cone of light