The authors evaluate histological findings in 17 temporal bones of subjects with trisomy of the 18th chromosome (Edwards syndrome). In 13 (76 %) temporal bones pathological findings were detected in the area of the external or middle ear. In particular retardation of the whole ear was involved, stenosis of the external auditory meatus, malformation of the ossicles and of the middle ear and muscles. Changes in the inner ear were diagnosed in 12 (71 %) temporal bones. Pathological findings included a short and wide inner auditory meatus, scala communis, endolym- phatic hydrops, widening of the lateral semicircular canal. The authors compare their observation with data in the literature. In subjects with Edwards syndrome typical changes in the hearingand vestibular organ cannot be assessed.

        Key words: temporal bone, histology, trisomy 18, Edwards syndrome.