What is the definition of otosclerosis?

Otosclerosis is defined as a bony overgrowth of the stapes, one of the three small bones in the middle ear that plays a critical role in the process of hearing. In otosclerosis, abnormal bone growth occurs around the stapes, which can immobilize the bone and disrupt the transmission of sound waves from the middle ear to the inner ear. This condition often leads to conductive hearing loss, as the affected stapes cannot function effectively to convey sound vibrations.

Understanding the correct definition helps in recognizing how otosclerosis affects hearing. The other options do not accurately describe this condition. For instance, earache, tinnitus, and tearing of the tympanic membrane are all related to different ear problems but do not encompass the specific bony overgrowth characteristic of otosclerosis. Therefore, recognizing otosclerosis as an abnormal growth affecting the stapes aids in identifying the underlying pathology associated with this condition.