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Updated: Jul 11, 2026
09:17
Psychophysical Tracking Method to Measure Taste Preferences in Children and Adults
Published on: July 16, 2016
Reliability of electrogustometry for the estimation of taste thresholds
B Lobb1, D M Elliffe, J A Stillman
1Psychology Department, The University of Auckland and School of Psychology, Massey University Albany, New Zealand. b.lobb@auckland.ac.nz
Clinical Otolaryngology and Allied Sciences
|December 21, 2000
Summary
Electrogustometry taste threshold testing shows significant session-to-session variability. Repeated testing may lead to systematic decreases in measured thresholds, suggesting caution when interpreting results from limited sessions.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Sensory Science
- Clinical Assessment
Background:
- Electrogustometry is a clinical tool for diagnosing taste disorders.
- Previous studies suggest good test-retest reliability for electrogustometric taste thresholds.
- Some evidence indicates taste thresholds may decrease with practice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the test-retest reliability and practice effects of electrogustometry.
- To assess the variability of electrogustometric taste threshold measurements over extended sessions.
Main Methods:
- Two subjects underwent 80 sessions of electrogustometry testing on both sides of the tongue.
- Taste thresholds were measured repeatedly across sessions.
- Data analysis included sessions from the beginning and after omitting initial sessions.
Main Results:
- Considerable session-to-session variability in taste thresholds was observed for both subjects.
- Three out of four data sets showed systematic decreases in thresholds with continued testing.
- Systematic decreases persisted even when the first 10 sessions were excluded.
Conclusions:
- Electrogustometric taste threshold measurements exhibit significant variability.
- Practice effects may lead to a systematic decrease in measured thresholds over time.
- Interpreting electrogustometry results based on few tests requires caution, especially for intervention monitoring.
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