Otology: practice question

A ENT question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

Try it

ENT · Otology

Sample item

Which tiny middle-ear muscle inserts on the neck of the stapes and can dampen its vibration?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

A. Stapedius

The finding is best explained by Stapedius; this is the key Otology principle that matches the presentation described in the question.

Option by option

  • A. Stapedius (correct)

    Correct. Stapedius is the appropriate conclusion for the decisive clue.

  • B. Buccinator

    Buccinator can occur in a different setting but is not the best answer here.

  • C. Cricothyroid

    Cricothyroid does not fit the symptom pattern or examination finding provided.

  • D. Tensor tympani

    Tensor tympani does not account for the defining otology feature.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

More ENT questions

Questions about this ENT question

What is the answer to this ENT question?

The best answer is A, Stapedius. The finding is best explained by Stapedius; this is the key Otology principle that matches the presentation described in the question.

Why is "Buccinator" not the answer?

Buccinator can occur in a different setting but is not the best answer here.

Why is "Cricothyroid" not the answer?

Cricothyroid does not fit the symptom pattern or examination finding provided.

Why is "Tensor tympani" not the answer?

Tensor tympani does not account for the defining otology feature.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Otology in ENT. The correct option holds because: Correct. Stapedius is the appropriate conclusion for the decisive clue.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Otology?

Learn tuning fork results and audiogram patterns by sketching them. Then use the flashcards and the other ENT questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.