title: Eustachian tube dysfunction.
abstract: The eustachian tube has several functions that are important in maintaining the normal state of the middle ear. The ability of the eustachian tube to carry out these functions changes with age. Certain pathophysiologic mechanisms may affect the normal state of the eustachian tube and predispose people, especially children, to otitis media.
authors.affiliation: Dept of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Tulane University School of Medicine in New Orleans.
authors.forename: A J
authors.initials: AJ
authors.lastname: Miller
authors.forename: G J
authors.initials: GJ
authors.lastname: Gianoli
mesh_terms: D000375:Aging / Q000502:physiology; D002648:Child; D004198:Disease Susceptibility; D005064:Eustachian Tube / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000502:physiology / Q000503:physiopathology*; D006801:Humans; D010033:Otitis Media