Middle Ear Mucosa in Newborn Infants:A Topographical and Microanatomical Study

Abstract

The serially sectioned material comprised 38 temporal bones from 20 liveborns and stillborns [human] with no signs of clinical otological disease. Columnar ciliated pseudostratified epithelium was found in all ears. It was most conspicuous in the Eustachian tube around its orifice and throughout the hypotympanum. Other ciliated pathways (2) were observed on the medial wall and on the roof. Squamous metaplasia of both ears was found in 1 case. Mucosubstances were scarce and no mucous glands were observed. Lamina propria was thicker and looser around the tubal orifice than elsewhere. Regression of the fetal loose connective tissue was evident towards the end of the gestation period.