Fibreoptic bronchoscopy enables pulmonologists to examine the trachea and bronchial passages using a thin flexible camera. It may be recommended for persistent unexplained cough, coughing up blood, suspected lung infection, abnormal imaging, airway lesions or suspected malignancy.

Depending on the clinical indication, bronchoscopy may include bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), bronchial brushings, endobronchial biopsy and needle aspiration to obtain samples for microbiological, cytological or histopathological examination.