Evaluation of bronchiectasis begins with a complete history and physical examination.

Physical findings in a person with bronchiectasis may include:

• Cyanosis
• Clubbing of digits
• Low blood oxygen levels
• Rapid respiratory rate
• Wheezing
• Signs of severe difficulty breathing
• Rib retractions
• Nasal flaring
• Use of accessory muscles

The diagnosis of bronchiectasis requires testing.

Tests that may be used to evaluate bronchiectasis include:

• Pulse oximetry
• Chest x-ray
• Arterial blood gas
• Pulmonary function tests:
• With response to bronchodilator medications
• Allergic skin testing (in the case of allergic asthma)
• Sweat chloride test
• Skin test for aspergillus
• Sputum culture
• Bronchoscopy
• CT scanning of the chest
• Chest MRI