What would a Type B tympanogram with small ear canal volume likely indicate?

A Type B tympanogram with small ear canal volume typically indicates a condition where there is an obstruction in the ear canal, leading to an inability of the tympanic membrane to move appropriately in response to air pressure changes. A small ear canal volume suggests that the ear canal is obstructed, which aligns with the presence of ear wax or cerumen impaction.

In this scenario, the tympanic membrane would be unable to respond normally because the occluding ear wax prevents the airflow needed for proper functioning, resulting in a flat tympanogram. This condition shows that the tympanic membrane is not moving effectively, but it also suggests that there is not a perforation. Instead, it points to an external blockage, confirming that ear wax is likely the issue.

Although middle ear effusion can also result in a Type B tympanogram, it typically does not present with a small ear canal volume, as effusions occur behind the tympanic membrane, not in the ear canal itself. Thus, ear wax blockage becomes the more fitting choice in this context.