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Updated: Dec 11, 2025
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Olfactory Assays for Mouse Models of Neurodegenerative Disease
Published on: August 25, 2014
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Is SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) postviral olfactory dysfunction (PVOD) different from other PVOD?
Sarah A Imam1, Wilson P Lao2, Priyanka Reddy3
1Department of Health and Human Performance, The Citadel, Charleston, SC, USA.
World Journal of Otorhinolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
|August 25, 2020
Summary
Postviral olfactory dysfunction (PVOD) shares similarities with COVID-19 olfactory issues. Research suggests identical mechanisms, with female predilection and older age observed in PVOD patients.
Area of Science:
- Otorhinolaryngology
- Virology
- Pathophysiology
Background:
- Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2.
- Rising incidence of olfactory disturbances in SARS-CoV-2 positive individuals.
- Postviral olfactory dysfunction (PVOD) as a potential explanation for these symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate the mechanisms of postviral olfactory dysfunction.
- Compare PVOD with COVID-19 associated olfactory dysfunction.
Main Methods:
- Scoping literature review.
- Inclusion of studies on pathophysiological, histological, immunochemical, and epidemiological outcomes of PVOD.
Main Results:
- Fourteen studies and one news article were reviewed.
- Viral inoculation in mice showed olfactory epithelium destruction.
- Pathogenic viruses causing anosmia were isolated.
- Female predilection and age over 50 noted in PVOD and COVID-19 olfactory dysfunction.
Conclusions:
- PVOD and COVID-19 olfactory dysfunction share epidemiological trends and sequelae.
- Identical pathophysiological mechanisms are suggested.
- Further research, including intranasal inoculation and biopsies, is recommended.
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