Which term describes hardening of the middle ear bone tissue?

• A. Otitis
• B. Presbycusis
• C. Nystagmus
• D. Otosclerosis

Answer: (D)

Otosclerosis describes hardening of the middle ear bone tissue, usually around the stapes footplate. This abnormal bone remodeling fixes the stapes in place, diminishing its ability to vibrate and transmit sound into the inner ear, leading to conductive hearing loss. Otitis is an infection of the middle ear with fluid and inflammation; presbycusis is age-related sensorineural loss from cochlear degeneration; nystagmus is involuntary eye movement related to vestibular or neurological issues.