On otological examination, all of the following will have positive fistula test, EXCEPT:
In a positive fistula test, a pressure change in the external ear canal is transmitted to the labyrinth by an abnormal opening thereby producing nystagmus and veigo. It also implies that the labyrinth is still functioning, and is absent when labyrinth is dead. The abnormal opening caused by a cholesteatoma eroding into the horizontal semicircular canal, following fenestrating operations and rupture of round window membrane are associated with positive fistula test. Hypermobile stapes footplate is associated with false positive fistula test.
Dead ear
Labyrinthine fistula
Hypermobile stapes footplate
Following fenestration surgery