Tympanometry is a test that measures myogenic activity by recording the mechanical response of the middle ear muscles to changes in air pressure in the ear canal. It produces a tympanogram that shows compliance levels and can identify three main types - Type A indicating normal function, Type B associated with fluid in the middle ear, and Type C where the peak is at a more negative pressure typically seen in patients with Eustachian tube dysfunction. Abnormal tympanograms can also provide information about conditions affecting the ossicular chain or eardrum mobility. The test cannot be conducted if the eardrum is ruptured.