Definition

Noun: A type of hearing loss caused by a problem that prevents sound from being conducted efficiently through the outer or middle ear to the inner ear. Specifically, it involves issues with the mechanical system of the ear, such as the eardrum or the three tiny bones (ossicles) in the middle ear.

Usage

This is a technical medical term used in audiology and otolaryngology (ear, nose, and throat medicine). It describes a specific physiological cause of hearing impairment.

Examples

• The audiologist diagnosed the patient with conduction deafness resulting from otosclerosis, a condition that fuses the middle ear bones.
• Unlike sensorineural hearing loss, conduction deafness often can be treated medically or surgically.
• A severe ear infection can sometimes lead to temporary conduction deafness.

Advanced Usage

• Conductive hearing loss is a more common contemporary synonym for conduction deafness. The term "deafness" in this context refers to a partial hearing loss, not necessarily complete deafness.
• It is often contrasted with , which is caused by damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve.

Variants and Related Words

• Conductive hearing loss: The preferred modern term, identical in meaning.
• Conductive: (Adjective) Relating to or involving conduction, especially of sound or heat. (e.g., ).

Synonyms

• Conductive hearing loss
• Middle ear deafness (less precise, as conduction issues can also involve the outer ear)

Antonyms

• Sensorineural deafness (sensorineural hearing loss)
• Nerve deafness

Notes

This term is part of a clinical classification system for hearing loss. It is important to distinguish it from other types, as the treatment and prognosis differ significantly.

Noun

1. hearing loss due to problems with the bones of the middle ear