Hemotympanum

Last revised by Morouj Shaggah on 21 Jan 2022

Hemotympanum is the presence of blood in the middle ear cavity. It is usually secondary to trauma.

Typically on otoscopy a bulging red to purple to dark blue colored tympanic membrane is visible, color varying with age of the hemorrhage. 

The hemorrhage has usually bled from superficial branches of the external carotid artery, which provide the rich vasculature of the middle ear.

On CT or MRI there is evidence of opacification of the middle ear cleft by fluid/blood products.

Conservative management usually suffices. Treatment of the underlying cause may also be required.

ADVERTISEMENT: Supporters see fewer/no ads

Updating… Please wait.

 Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

 Thank you for updating your details.