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Olfactory Receptors: Location and Structure01:03

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The process of olfaction, also known as the sense of smell, is a sophisticated chemical response system. The specialized sensory neurons that facilitate this process, known as olfactory receptor neurons, are situated in an upper segment of the nasal cavity, known as the olfactory epithelium. Olfactory sensory neurons are bipolar, with their dendrites extending from the epithelium's apex into the mucus that lines the nasal cavity. Airborne molecules, when inhaled, traverse the olfactory...
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Humans detect odors with the help of specialized cells located in the upper part of the nasal cavity, called olfactory receptor neurons (ORNs). ORNs possess hair-like structures called cilia, which are receptive to sensations from the inhaled air. When an odorant molecule binds to a specific receptor on the cell of the cilia, it leads to a series of events that ultimately cause the ORN to send electrical signals to the olfactory bulb in the brain through the olfactory nerves.
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Gustation, or the sense of taste, is intrinsically linked to the anatomical structures located on the tongue. This organ's surface, along with the entirety of the oral cavity, is adorned with stratified squamous epithelium. Evident on the tongue are elevated structures known as papillae (singular = papilla), which house the mechanisms for the transduction of gustatory stimuli. Four distinct types of papillae exist, each identified by their unique morphological attributes: the circumvallate,...
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Chapter 13: Olfactory disorders.

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Chapter 13: Olfactory disorders.

Alan Gaines

    American Journal of Rhinology & Allergy
    |October 13, 2017
    PubMed
    Summary
    This summary is machine-generated.

    A reduced sense of smell significantly impacts quality of life and can be more prevalent than reported, especially in the elderly. Causes range from head trauma to chronic rhinosinusitis, affecting prognosis and treatment.

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    Area of Science:

    • Otolaryngology
    • Neuroscience
    • Gerontology

    Background:

    • Decreased sense of smell (hyposmia/anosmia) significantly impairs quality of life, affecting taste, nutrition, and safety.
    • Self-reported prevalence is low, but objective testing reveals high rates, particularly in the elderly.
    • Multiple factors contribute, including head trauma, aging, autoimmunity, toxic exposures, and chronic rhinosinusitis.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To summarize the impact of smell disorders on quality of life.
    • To highlight the discrepancy between self-reported and objectively measured prevalence of hyposmia and anosmia.
    • To discuss the diverse pathophysiological causes and their implications for prognosis and treatment.

    Main Methods:

    • Review of epidemiological reports and clinical observations.
    • Analysis of factors contributing to smell impairment.
    • Discussion of the role of chronic rhinosinusitis and mucosal inflammation.

    Main Results:

    • Objective smell tests reveal high prevalence of hyposmia and anosmia, especially in the elderly.
    • Causes of smell loss are varied, influencing treatment and outcomes.
    • Chronic rhinosinusitis is a common cause, linked to mucosal inflammation rather than obstruction.

    Conclusions:

    • Smell impairment has profound effects on daily living and safety.
    • Accurate diagnosis through objective testing is crucial for understanding prevalence.
    • Understanding the underlying pathophysiology is key to effective management and treatment strategies.