Final answer:
Disruption of the ossicular and alternative pathway can increase hearing loss.
Step-by-step explanation:
Disruption of the ossicular (preferential) and alternative pathway can lead to an increase in hearing loss. The ossicular pathway involves the three tiny bones in the middle ear: the malleus, incus, and stapes. This pathway helps transmit sound vibrations from the eardrum to the inner ear. If there is a disruption or damage to these bones, the transmission of sound can be affected, resulting in hearing loss. The alternative pathway, which involves bone conduction, helps bypass the middle ear and directly stimulate the inner ear. However, if there is disruption or damage to this pathway, it can also lead to an increase in hearing loss.