Which test helps in assessing the mobility of the tympanic membrane?

Tympanometry is the correct answer because it specifically measures the mobility and compliance of the tympanic membrane (ear drum) in response to changes in air pressure in the ear canal. By using tympanometry, clinicians can evaluate how well the tympanic membrane moves and determine the presence of middle ear disorders, such as fluid, perforations, or eustachian tube dysfunction. The results are typically displayed on a tympanogram, where different shapes indicate varying states of tympanic membrane mobility.

Other tests listed do not focus on the mobility of the tympanic membrane. Pure tone audiometry assesses hearing sensitivity across different frequencies but does not provide information about tympanic membrane movement. Speech audiometry evaluates an individual’s ability to understand speech at different levels but is unrelated to tympanic membrane mobility. Otoacoustic emissions are used to assess cochlear (inner ear) functioning and do not correlate with the movement of the tympanic membrane. Therefore, tympanometry is uniquely suited for evaluating tympanic membrane mobility.