Patulous

Patulous is an adjective derived from the Latin patulus, meaning open or spread. In medical terminology, it describes an anatomical structure that remains abnormally open or non-occluded, rather than fully closed or sealed. The term is most commonly encountered in reference to the Eustachian tube.

The patulous Eustachian tube is the best-known use of the term. Normally the pharyngotympanic tube remains closed except during swallowing or yawning, but when it is patulous it stays intermittently or continuously open. People with this condition may experience autophony (hearing one’s own voice, breathing, or other internal sounds loudly), a sense of fullness in the ear, and sometimes crackling or popping sounds. The condition can be transient or chronic and may fluctuate with body position or hydration.

Diagnosis is typically made by a clinician, based on history and ear examination, sometimes supported by tympanometry or acoustic tests. Treatment focuses on addressing underlying factors and minimizing symptoms. Practical measures may include ensuring adequate hydration, maintaining a stable body weight, and avoiding activities or medications that may worsen mucosal drying. In persistent or troublesome cases, referral to an ear, nose, and throat specialist is common, and management may involve specialized interventions, though such options are relatively uncommon and reserved for refractory cases.

In addition to the Eustachian tube, the term patulous can be applied to other anatomical structures described as abnormally open, though these uses are less common. See also Eustachian tube and autophony.