AST Surgical Technologist Practice Exam

Which portion of the ear is primarily affected by Meniere's syndrome?

1. Outer ear

2. Middle ear

3. Inner ear

4. Auditory canal

The correct answer is: Inner ear

Meniere's syndrome primarily affects the inner ear, which is crucial for both hearing and balance. This condition is characterized by episodes of vertigo, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), fluctuating hearing loss, and a sensation of fullness or pressure in the affected ear. The inner ear contains the cochlea, responsible for converting sound vibrations into electrical signals for the brain, and the vestibular system, which is essential for maintaining balance. The symptoms arise due to an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the inner ear's labyrinthine structures, disrupting normal function. This highlights why the correct answer indicates the inner ear as the primary focus of Meniere's syndrome. In contrast, the outer ear relates to the external structures of the ear, and the middle ear includes the tympanic cavity and ossicles, neither of which are directly impacted in Meniere's syndrome. The auditory canal is simply a passage leading to the eardrum, which does not play a role in the symptoms associated with this disorder. Thus, the inner ear's unique structure and function explain why it is the area primarily affected by Meniere's syndrome.