Abstract
The effect of tumor growth on Eustachian tube function was analyzed by correlating tubal function (ventilatory function and clearance function) and tumor staging, assessed by CT scans and endoscopy of 30 cases (56 ears) of nasopharyngeal carcinoma. CT-staging was closely correlated with endcscopic results, but the former was more specific than the latter. Impairment of active opening and clearance function increased as tumor growth progressed. A similar correlation was found between the incidence of otitis media with effusion (OME) and tumor growth. However, passive opening was not impaired until the parapharyngeal space was completely occupied by tumor. Negative pressure equalization function showed the most impairment, followed in order by positive pressure equalization function, clearance function and passive opening. These results indicate that extension of tumor around the tube caused tubal dysfunction with subsequent development of OME.
