Absent Stapedius Reflex Case Study in ENT Audiology
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Using Acoustic Reflex Testing to Detect Early Nerve DysfunctionCase Overview A 46-year-old patient visited Enticare with complaints of sound sensitivity and difficulty tolerating everyday noise. The patient reported no significant hearing loss but experienced discomfort during conversations and public outings. Clinical Findings Pure-tone audiometry showed near-normal hearing thresholds Tympanometry revealed normal middle ear pressure Acoustic reflex testing showed an absent stapedius reflex on the affected side Diagnosis Further evaluation identified early facial nerve involvement, which explained the absent reflex and sound sensitivity symptoms. Outcome Early detection allowed the care team to begin targeted treatment and hearing protection strategies. The patient reported improved sound tolerance within weeks and avoided further nerve complications. Key Insight Acoustic reflex testing can reveal nerve dysfunction before standard hearing tests show abnormalities.

by | Feb 4, 2026 | Case Study

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Case Overview

A 46-year-old patient visited Enticare with complaints of sound sensitivity and difficulty tolerating everyday noise. The patient reported no significant hearing loss but experienced discomfort during conversations and public outings.

Clinical Findings

  • Pure-tone audiometry showed near-normal hearing thresholds

  • Tympanometry revealed normal middle ear pressure

  • Acoustic reflex testing showed an absent stapedius reflex on the affected side

Diagnosis

Further evaluation identified early facial nerve involvement, which explained the absent reflex and sound sensitivity symptoms.

Outcome

Early detection allowed the care team to begin targeted treatment and hearing protection strategies. The patient reported improved sound tolerance within weeks and avoided further nerve complications.

Key Insight

Acoustic reflex testing can reveal nerve dysfunction before standard hearing tests show abnormalities.

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