From Janet Tobiassen Crosby, DVM,
Your Guide to Veterinary Medicine.
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Definition: Rhinoscopy is an examination of the nasal passages. This can be done by viewing in from the nostril or with a small flexible scope through the nasopharynx.

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.

Veterinary Glossary Index

Pronunciation: rine-os-co-pee

Examples: Mr. Smith elected to have a rhinoscopy for his dog when the second course of antibiotics failed to clear up the nasal discharge.