[Deficits in medical counseling in olfactory dysfunction].

Area of Science:

• Otorhinolaryngology
• Neuroscience
• Public Health

Background:

• Olfactory dysfunction (dysosmia) affects up to 20% of the population.
• Impaired sense of smell poses significant safety risks and necessitates patient awareness.
• Dysosmia can lead to professional limitations and reduced quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate olfactory dysfunction in patients presenting to a specialized medical center.
• To assess the diagnostic pathways and counseling received by patients with dysosmia.
• To determine the impact of olfactory impairment on professional activities.

Main Methods:

• A questionnaire was administered to 105 patients with dysosmia.
• Standardized olfactory testing (Sniffin' Sticks) was used for quantification.
• Data collected included patient history, causes, duration, and professional impact.

Main Results:

• 46% of patients were hyposmic, and 40% were functionally anosmic.
• The median duration of olfactory impairment was 10 months.
• 95% of patients reported receiving no medical counseling, and 6% discontinued their profession.

Conclusions:

• Appropriate diagnostics, including olfactometry, are essential for olfactory dysfunction.
• Medical counseling on safety measures (e.g., detectors, cooking precautions) is crucial.
• Workplace hazard analysis is vital for patients in professional roles.