Treatment of posttraumatic olfactory dysfunction with corticosteroids and olfactory training
Mette Bratt1,2, Kent G Moen2,3, Ståle Nordgård1,2
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway.
Acta Oto-Laryngologica
|June 4, 2020
Summary
Sequential treatment with corticosteroids and olfactory training (OT) significantly improved smell in patients with posttraumatic olfactory dysfunction (OD) after traumatic brain injury (TBI). This suggests a promising therapeutic approach for long-term recovery.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Otolaryngology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Long-term effects of treatments for posttraumatic olfactory dysfunction (OD) remain under-investigated.
- Olfactory dysfunction is a common and persistent issue following moderate and severe traumatic brain injury (TBI).
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of sequential treatment with corticosteroids and olfactory training (OT) for improving smell in TBI patients with persistent OD.
- To assess the long-term impact of this combined treatment over a 12-month period.
Main Methods:
- An open, uncontrolled intervention study involving 22 patients with persistent OD (mean 62 months post-TBI).
- Treatment protocol: 10 days of oral corticosteroids followed by 3 months of twice-daily olfactory training (OT).
- Olfactory function assessed using Sniffin' Sticks (TDI score) at baseline and at 12 months post-intervention.
Main Results:
- Significant improvement in the mean TDI score from 14.4 at baseline to 20.8 after 1 year (p < .001).
- All components of the TDI score (threshold, discrimination, identification) showed significant increases.
- Clinically significant improvement (≥6.0 TDI points) was observed in 50% of patients (11/22).
Conclusions:
- Sequential treatment with corticosteroids and olfactory training (OT) demonstrates a promising therapeutic effect for persistent olfactory dysfunction (OD) after traumatic brain injury (TBI).
- Further research is warranted to confirm these findings and explore optimal treatment strategies.
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