[Patulous eustachian tube--little big ailment and its poorly known treatment].

Eustachian tube is normally closed, but the valve of the eustachian tube may occasionally or permanently be left unclosed, resulting in a condition called patulous eustachian tube (tuba aperta). Symptoms caused by patulous eustachian tube, such as locking of the ear, own voice echo (autophony) and sensation of edema or pressure may be inconvenient. In practice, typical anamnesis is sufficient for diagnosis. If the inconvenience is disturbing to the patient, humidification therapies through the nose can be applied. In severe cases, surgical treatments may also be considered.