An endoscopic sinus examination may be used if:

• The diagnosis of sinusitis is still in doubt after a CT or MRI scan is performed.
• Initial medical treatment of sinusitis has failed to solve the problem.
• Surgery is being considered. An endoscopic sinus examination may be used to evaluate the structures inside the nose where the surgery will be performed.

Normal

Bones and soft tissues appear normal.

Abnormal

• Swelling and redness (inflammation) of the mucous membrane are present.
• The nasal passages are blocked or have an abnormal size or shape.
• Discoloured, thick mucus is draining from a sinus opening.
• Growths (nasal polyps) or foreign bodies inside the nose are seen.
• The partition between the nasal cavities is crooked (deviated nasal septum) and is causing obstruction.