[Fluctuating deafness (author's transl)].

The problem of fluctuating deafness merits a separate place in otological pathology. On the basis of 52 cases of recurrent fluctuations in hearing in patients observed over a sufficiently long period, the authors provide evidence to the effect that, in addition to pressure disturbances accepted up to now, other mechanisms may be responsible. An aetiological study emphasises the role of local factors, but examination for general causes is also necessary. Clinical study of fluctuating deafness also reveals interesting data which, taken in combination with pathogenic hypotheses, are of therapeutic significance.