[Assessment of olfactory and gustatory function with validated tests]

Approximately 5 % of the general population is affected by functional anosmia. An additional 15 % exhibit decreased olfactory function. Many of these individuals ask ENT-doctors or neurologists for help. A cornerstone of the counselling process is the assessment of olfactory function. The aim of this work is to give a differentiated overview about the administration of commonly used psychophysical tests for olfactory and gustatory function including their normative data. The use of standardized, reliable and validated tools is mandatory to provide patients with state-of the-art counseling on treatment options.