What condition is described as a genetic abnormality leading to conductive hearing loss?

Otosclerosis is a condition characterized by abnormal bone growth in the middle ear, which can lead to conductive hearing loss. This genetic abnormality affects the stapes bone, one of the tiny bones in the middle ear that is essential for sound transmission. When otosclerosis occurs, the stapes becomes fixed in place and unable to vibrate properly, preventing sound waves from being transmitted effectively from the middle ear to the inner ear, resulting in a hearing loss that can be progressive over time.

The other conditions mentioned are associated with hearing loss as well, but they do not primarily result from a genetic abnormality leading to conductive hearing loss. Meniere's disease, for example, is primarily related to fluid build-up in the inner ear and is associated with sensorineural hearing loss. Gradenigo's syndrome is a rare complication of otitis media involving cranial nerve damage rather than a genetic issue. Cholesteatoma is an abnormal skin growth in the middle ear that can lead to hearing loss as well, but it is typically caused by chronic ear infections rather than a genetic condition. Thus, otosclerosis is specifically identified as the genetic abnormality that results in conductive hearing loss.