Dictionary of Allergies .. Atelectasis of the tympanic membrane,

In some instances, the eardrum may be retracted or collapsed without a middle ear effusion, which is termed atelectasis of the tympanic membrane and is the result of persistent or intermittent negative middle ear pressure (functional obstruction of the tube). (Blustone 1981). Atelectasis of the tympanic membrane may represent the only pathology in some patients but in others the condition can be present between episodes of otitis media with effusion.

References

Bluestone, C.D.: Recent advances in the Pathogenesis, Diagnosis and Management of Otitis Media Ped. Clinics of N. Am. Vol. 28, No.4, Nov. 1981.