What is the condition characterized by the developmental absence of the ear canal?

The condition characterized by the developmental absence of the ear canal is aural atresia. Aural atresia specifically refers to the underdevelopment or complete absence of the external auditory canal, which can significantly impact hearing. This condition is typically congenital, meaning that it is present at birth, and it can occur alone or in conjunction with other ear anomalies, including microtia, which is the underdevelopment of the outer ear itself.

In cases of aural atresia, the progression of sound transmission to the middle and inner ear is disrupted due to the absence of a properly formed ear canal. As a result, individuals with aural atresia may experience varying degrees of conductive hearing loss, depending on the severity of the condition.

Other options presented, such as microtia, refer specifically to the malformation of the outer ear but not necessarily to the canal itself. Cerumen impaction involves the blockage of the ear canal by earwax and does not refer to an absence but rather an obstruction. Monomers are related to tympanic membrane pathology and do not pertain to the absence of the ear canal. Thus, aural atresia is the most accurate choice that describes this specific developmental condition.