What audiometric finding is associated with otosclerosis, specifically at 2000 Hz?

The association of Carhart's Notch with otosclerosis is well-documented in audiometric findings. Otosclerosis primarily affects the stapes bone in the middle ear, leading to conductive hearing loss. Carhart's Notch specifically refers to a characteristic dip in the bone conduction threshold at around 2000 Hz in patients with otosclerosis. This drop is often seen on an audiogram in individuals with this condition, indicating a unique pattern resulting from the changes in the middle ear's structural integrity.

In cases of otosclerosis, while there may be conductive hearing loss due to the inability of the stapes to properly transmit sound, Carhart's Notch highlights a particular frequency that is impacted more than others, distinctively marking it as a notable feature of the audiometric profile in these patients. Understanding the presence of this notch is critical for audiologists and hearing aid dispensers, as it not only aids in diagnosing otosclerosis but also informs the fitting and calibration of hearing devices to accommodate this specific frequency sensitivity.