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Updated: Jan 23, 2026
10:42
A Free-breathing fMRI Method to Study Human Olfactory Function
Published on: July 30, 2017
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The olfactory function in patients with common variable immunodeficiency
G Magliulo1, G Iannella1, A Ciofalo1
1Organi di Senso Department, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico, 151, 00161 Rome, Italy.
Summary
Olfactory dysfunction affects nearly half of patients with common variable immunodeficiency (CVI). Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) may contribute to these smell disorders in CVI patients.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Otolaryngology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Common variable immunodeficiency (CVI) is a primary immunodeficiency characterized by impaired antibody production.
- Olfactory dysfunction, affecting the sense of smell, can significantly impact quality of life.
- Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a common comorbidity in CVI patients, potentially affecting sinonasal structures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of olfactory dysfunction in patients diagnosed with CVI.
- To investigate the correlation between olfactory dysfunction and the presence of CRS in CVI patients.
Main Methods:
- Fifty CVI patients undergoing immunoglobulin replacement therapy were included.
- Otolaryngology physical examination and CT scans were performed to assess for CRS.
- Olfactory function was evaluated using the Sniffin' Sticks Test, measuring threshold, discrimination, identification, and TDI scores.
Main Results:
- Olfactory dysfunction was identified in 46% of CVI patients, with hyposmia (65%) and anosmia (38%) being prevalent.
- The mean TDI score for the study group was 27.7.
- CVI patients with CRS exhibited a more pronounced impairment in olfactory threshold, discrimination, and identification compared to those without CRS.
Conclusions:
- Patients with CVI demonstrate a higher prevalence of olfactory disorders compared to the general population.
- Rhinosinusitis is a potential contributing factor to olfactory dysfunction in individuals with CVI.
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