Diagnosis of nasal airway obstruction

Otolaryngol Clin North Am. 2009 Apr;42(2):207-25, vii. doi: 10.1016/j.otc.2009.01.004.

Abstract

Nasal airway obstruction is the source of significant patient discomfort and financial burden; hence, otolaryngologists encounter this symptom on an almost daily basis. This article provides a thorough yet concise summary of common and more specialized techniques that are instrumental in diagnosing nasal obstruction. The article begins with a brief overview of significant nasal anatomy and physiology. Ultimately, the main focus is on exploring the role of nasal endoscopy, radiographic imaging, acoustic rhinomanometry and other diagnostic tests that assist in the diagnosis of nasal airway obstruction.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Endoscopy
  • Humans
  • Nasal Obstruction / diagnosis*
  • Nasal Obstruction / pathology
  • Nose / pathology
  • Pulmonary Ventilation
  • Rhinomanometry
  • Rhinometry, Acoustic