COVID-19 related olfactory dysfunction : Current Opinion in Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Surgery

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NOSE AND PARANASAL SINUSES: Edited by Nithin D. Adappa and Edward C. Kuan

COVID-19 related olfactory dysfunction

Karamali, Katerinaa; Elliott, Michaela; Hopkins, Claireb

Author Information

aDepartment of Otorhinolaryngology, Guy's and St Thomas NHS Foundation Trust

bGuy's and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom

Correspondence to Professor Claire Hopkins, BMBCH, FRCS(ORLHNS), Guy's and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom. Tel: +02071882215; e-mail: [email protected]

Current Opinion in Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Surgery 30(1):p 19-25, February 2022. | DOI: 10.1097/MOO.0000000000000783

Abstract

Purpose of review 

This article reviews the literature on COVID-19 related anosmia, focusing on the epidemiology, pathophysiology recovery rates, current available treatment options, and research regarding novel treatments.

Recent findings 

Loss of sense of smell is one of the most prevalent symptoms reported by patients after COVID-19 infection. Even though there is a high self-reported recovery rate, recent studies have demonstrated that up to 7% of the patients remain anosmic more than 12 months after onset, leaving millions worldwide with severe olfactory dysfunction. Olfactory training remains the first line recommended treatment. Given the paucity of effective medical treatments options researchers are exploring novel therapeutic options.

Summary 

Olfactory dysfunction remains a significant and persistent legacy of the COVID-19 pandemic, but heightened awareness may stimulate research that leads to the development of much-needed treatment options.

Copyright © 2021 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

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