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Updated: Jun 11, 2026
06:40
Simple and Computer-assisted Olfactory Testing for Mice
Published on: June 15, 2015
Anosmia and hyposmia
1Department of Pediatrics, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA. alan_gaines@brown.edu
Allergy and Asthma Proceedings
|July 10, 2010
Summary
Olfactory disorders, or decreased sense of smell, significantly impact quality of life. Objective testing reveals a high prevalence of smell impairment (hyposmia and anosmia), particularly in the elderly.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Neurology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Olfactory disorders significantly impair quality of life, affecting taste, appetite, and safety.
- Self-reported prevalence is low, but objective testing reveals high rates of hyposmia and anosmia, especially in the elderly.
- Causes include head trauma, aging, autoimmunity, and toxic exposures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the renewed interest in olfactory disorders.
- To discuss the pathophysiology and prevalence of smell impairment.
- To highlight the role of chronic rhinosinusitis in smell dysfunction.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent epidemiological reports and pathophysiologic processes.
- Discussion of diagnostic approaches using validated smell tests.
- Analysis of olfactory dysfunction in the context of chronic rhinosinusitis.
Main Results:
- Objective smell tests reveal a high prevalence of hyposmia and anosmia, contradicting low self-reported rates.
- Chronic rhinosinusitis is a common cause of smell impairment, primarily due to mucosal inflammation.
- Various pathophysiologic processes contribute to smell loss with differing prognoses.
Conclusions:
- Olfactory dysfunction is more prevalent than previously thought, especially in the elderly.
- Mucosal inflammation in chronic rhinosinusitis is a key factor in smell impairment.
- Understanding the diverse causes is crucial for prognosis and treatment.
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