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Updated: May 23, 2026
07:10
Taste Exam: A Brief and Validated Test
Published on: August 17, 2018
Understanding taste dysfunction in patients with cancer.
Laura McLaughlin1, Suzanne M Mahon
1School of Nursing, Saint Louis University in Missouri, USA. lashmann@slu.edu
Clinical Journal of Oncology Nursing
|March 31, 2012
Summary
Cancer patients often experience taste dysfunction, impacting diet and well-being. Nurses can educate and support patients through this challenging treatment side effect.
Area of Science:
- Oncology Nursing
- Sensory Science
Background:
- Taste dysfunction is an underestimated complication for cancer patients.
- Impaired taste affects diet, appetite, satiety, and social interactions.
- Taste is crucial for identifying food quality and initiating digestion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the anatomy and physiology of taste.
- To define taste dysfunction types and their link to cancer treatment.
- To discuss nursing interventions for managing taste dysfunction consequences.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on taste physiology and cancer treatment effects.
- Analysis of taste dysfunction types and pathophysiological basis.
- Exploration of nursing interventions and psychosocial support.
Main Results:
- Taste dysfunction significantly impacts cancer patients' quality of life.
- Understanding taste mechanisms is key to managing related issues.
- Nursing interventions can mitigate the consequences of taste changes.
Conclusions:
- Taste dysfunction is a critical issue in cancer care requiring attention.
- Nurses play a vital role in patient education and support.
- Further research into effective interventions is warranted.
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