| Description |
: |
Histologically, tympanosclerosis begins with fibroblastic invasion of the submucosal layers followed by a thickening and fusion of the collagen fibers into a homogenous mass or plaque.
The thickened and hyalinized collagen fibers are increased in number and are typically arranged in a parallel or lamellar fashion.
Over time, the tympanosclerotic tissue attracts calcium ions, and a stippled, basophilic, dystrophic calcification appears.
There are two patterns of calcification: in one, the calcification occurs in a diffuse speckled pattern and in the other, the calcium is deposited in huge masses. In some patients actual bone formation (heterotopic ossification) may occur. |
