Indications for doing a rhinoscopy include persistent nasal discharge, especially if just through one nostril, known or suspected inhalation of a foreign body such as a twig or cheat grass awn, suspected tumor or fungal (aspergillosis) infection.
An otoscope (funnel-shaped instrument with a light and magnifier usually used to view ear canals) can be utilized to gently spread the nostril and view the nasal passage. A long forceps can be used through an otoscope to retrieve nasal foreign bodies or collect a specimen. In cases where there is a lot of nasal discharge, it may be difficult to get a good diagnostic view.
A flexible fiber optic scope is needed for a complete nasal exam, complete with a light source and preferably a suction source; since discharge often occludes view.
