Allergy in pathogenesis of Eustachian Tube Dysfunction

Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) is a condition where the Eustachian tube (ET) fails to function normally, resulting in symptoms such as aural fullness, tinnitus, autophony, and hearing loss. ETD can further lead to middle ear diseases such as otitis media effusion and adhesive otitis media, which is becoming more common in the field of otology. Although the pathogenesis of ETD remains unclear, recent animal studies and clinical experiments have found allergic reactions and allergic diseases are closely related to the occurrence of ETD. As the mucosa of the ET is continuous with that of the nasopharynx and tympanic cavity, it is reasonable to assume that the immunological basis of the ET itself is similar to that of respiratory allergic diseases. However, due to the special anatomical location and complex pathogenesis of the ET, there is still no unified diagnostic gold standard. Additionally, there is an ongoing debate regarding whether ETD can be classified as a distinct disease or even an allergic disease. Furthermore, the effectiveness of anti-allergic therapy in patients with ETD is yet to be fully understood. Therefore, this review elaborates on the possible mechanisms of allergic reactions in the occurrence and development of ETD, and explores the potential role of anti-allergic therapy in managing this condition, in order to provide new insights into the pathogenesis and prevention of ETD.