Hämatotympanon

Hemotympanum is the presence of blood in the middle ear cavity. It is usually secondary to trauma.

Clinical presentation

Typically on otoscopy a bulging red to purple to dark blue colored tympanic membrane is visible, color varying with age of the hemorrhage.

Pathology

The hemorrhage has usually bled from superficial branches of the external carotid artery, which provide the rich vasculature of the middle ear.

Etiology

Radiographic features

On CT or MRI there is evidence of opacification of the middle ear cleft by fluid/blood products.

Treatment and prognosis

Conservative management usually suffices. Treatment of the underlying cause may also be required.

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