Otoendoscopy in the era of narrow-band imaging: a pictorial review

Purpose Otoendoscopy represents the initial non-invasive diagnostic cornerstone for external and middle ear disorders. Recently, new techniques of enhanced imaging such as narrow-band imaging (NBI) have been introduced but their role as a potential aid in otological practice remains unproven. In this pictorial review, we want to present the potential application of this endoscopic method, highlight its limitations, and give some hints regarding its future implementation. Methods Representative cases of external and/or middle ear pathologies were selected to illustrate the role of NBI in this regard. Results NBI may represent a useful aid in the otological work-up, in the differential diagnosis of ear tumor-like masses, and, possibly, in the prognosis of tympanic perforations. For other ear disorders, instead, this technique does not seem to add anything to the standard clinical practice. Conclusions NBI might prove useful in the assessment of selected external and middle ear disorders but its role must be prospectively validated.