Patulous Eustachian Tube Patients With Oculopharyngeal Muscular Dystrophy

Objectives: To describe cases of patulous Eustachian tube (PET) or patent ET conditions in oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy (OPMD). Patients: Four cases of PET or patent ET conditions with OPMD. Main Outcome Measures: Clinical case records, objective ET function tests (tubo-tympano-aerodynamic graphy and sonotubometry), and swallowing function (videoendoscopic examination and Food Intake Level Scale) were analyzed. Results: Two cases of definite PET, one case of possible PET, and one case lacking aural symptoms with findings of patent ET. All patients have ptosis, and three cases have dysphagia. Body mass index indicated that three cases were underweight. Magnetic resonance imaging in case 4 showed atrophy and fat replacement of palatine and masticatory muscles. Conclusions: It is important to consider PET or patent ET conditions when OPMD patients describe aural symptoms.