What does atresia refer to in otology?

Atresia, in the context of otology, specifically refers to the absence or closure of the ear canal. This condition can occur as a congenital abnormality, meaning it is present at birth. When atresia is present, the ear canal does not develop properly, which can lead to hearing loss and other complications since sound cannot effectively reach the eardrum.

The absence of an ear canal distinguishes atresia from other conditions related to the ear, as it directly impacts the pathway for sound transmission. While narrowing of the ear canal can also affect hearing, it does not convey the complete obstruction or absence that characterizes atresia. Additionally, conditions such as excessive earwax build-up and abnormal growths in the external ear pertain to different issues within the ear's anatomy and functioning, thereby further clarifying why atresia specifically denotes the absence of the ear canal.