Diagnosis of rhinosinusitis

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Depending on the severity and chronicity of the patient’s symptoms, the doctor will select between different tests.

Folder with a patient's medical history

Medical history. Patients with symptoms of acute rhinosinusitis will be asked questions and their case history recorded (anamnesis) and, if possible, a nasal endoscopy. Imaging tests are only carried out in patients where the diagnosis is unclear or who present a slow evolution. In patients suspected of chronic rhinosinusitis, besides the interview, they will also undergo a nasal endoscopy and imaging tests.

Person undergoing nasal endoscopy

Nasal endoscopy. A rigid or flexible endoscope with a fibre optic light is inserted in the patient’s nose to obtain a view of the nasal cavity. 

Magnetic Resonance Imaging or MRI machine

Imaging tests. Images obtained from a computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging study (in fact of complications) can reveal details about the paranasal sinuses and nasal area. These images can help produce an accurate view of deep inflammation or a physical obstruction that is hard to identify with an endoscope. It has recently been demonstrated that X-rays of the paranasal sinuses are completely unnecessary for the diagnosis of rhinosinusitis (both acute or chronic).

Person undergoing a sniffing test

Olfactometry or gustometry. Allows an assessment of the sense of smell and taste.

Bacteria of the intestinal microbiota in a petri dish

Nasal cultures. In general, cultures are not required for the diagnosis of chronic rhinosinusitis. Nevertheless, if the condition does not respond to treatment or worsens, tissue cultures can help determine the cause, e.g., whether bacterial or fungal.

Allergy test on the arm

Allergy test. If the doctor suspects that the condition may be caused by an allergy, a skin allergy test may be recommended. Skin tests are safe and quick and can help accurately identify the allergen responsible for nasal discomfort. In some cases, a blood test may be ordered to broaden the allergy study and determine the specific antibodies against the allergens.

Substantiated information by:

Cristobal Langdon Montero

Published: 19 September 2018
Updated: 19 October 2025

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