How is the peak pressure on a tympanogram defined?

The peak pressure on a tympanogram is defined as the point of highest compliance. In the context of tympanometry, compliance refers to the mobility of the tympanic membrane in response to changes in air pressure in the ear canal. When performing tympanometry, the air pressure in the ear canal is varied, and compliance is measured.

As the air pressure approaches the pressure in the middle ear, the tympanic membrane reaches its point of highest mobility or compliance, which results in the peak on the tympanogram. This peak indicates that the middle ear system is optimally functioning, allowing sound to be transmitted effectively.

Understanding the peak pressure is essential for diagnosing conditions such as Eustachian tube dysfunction, middle ear fluid, or perforations in the tympanic membrane, as these conditions will exhibit abnormal tympanometric patterns.