Olfactory Disorder Pattern In Patients With Neurological Diseases Excluding Psychiatric And Traumatic Aetiologies

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Otolaryngology
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Olfactory disorders commonly stem from infections, allergies, and traumatic brain injury.
• Rarer causes include neurological, psychiatric, and metabolic conditions.
• This study focuses on olfactory dysfunction following non-traumatic neurological injuries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate olfactory disorders in patients with neurological injuries, excluding specific conditions like traumatic brain injury, psychiatric diseases, epilepsy, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and synaesthesia.
• To assess the prevalence and severity of olfactory impairment in this patient group.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive study involving 61 patients diagnosed with various neurological injuries.
• Olfactory function was assessed using the BAST-24 olfactometer.
• Results were compared against a control group of 120 individuals.

Main Results:

• Patients with neurological injuries exhibited significant olfactory deficits compared to controls.
• Odour detection rates were 60-77% in patients versus 98-100% in controls.
• Correct odour identification was markedly lower in patients (11-32%) than in controls (59-75%).
• Statistical analysis confirmed significant differences (p<.05) in both detection and identification.

Conclusions:

• Neurological injuries, distinct from traumatic brain injury, psychiatric, or ENT conditions, account for 68-89% of olfactory dysfunctions.
• Olfactory disorders should be recognized as a potential consequence of neurological injuries.
• Enhanced collaboration between Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialists and neurologists is crucial for managing these olfactory deficits.