Politzer's test – but which one? A plea for standardisation of terms in otology

Abstract Background Politzer's tuning fork test is a little-known special examination with a chequered history. Objective This paper gives Politzer's original description, and explains how he intended it to be used. Methods The historiographical research in this study is based on primary references. Secondary documentation is only cited when it is necessary to substantiate any historical argument. Results and conclusion After the apparent disappearance of Politzer's tuning fork test from the otological scene in the 1950s, its consequent resurrection was not what it seemed. This story underlines the need for a standardisation of otological nomenclature, particularly when eponyms are used.