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Olfactory and Gustatory Dysfunction in COVID-19: A Global Bibliometric and Visualized Analysis
Sa'ed H Zyoud1,2,3, Muna Shakhshir4, Amer Koni2,5
1Poison Control and Drug Information Center (PCDIC), College of Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine.
The Annals of Otology, Rhinology, and Laryngology
|March 4, 2022
Summary
This bibliometric analysis reveals that olfactory and gustatory dysfunction are key research areas in COVID-19 studies. The findings highlight the importance of these symptoms for diagnosing coronavirus infection.
Area of Science:
- Medical Research
- Infectious Diseases
- Otorhinolaryngology
Background:
- Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is known to affect the senses of smell and taste in infected individuals.
- The precise mechanisms behind these sensory alterations remain unclear.
- Investigating the impact of COVID-19 on olfactory and gustatory functions is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a bibliometric analysis of research on COVID-19 and its effects on olfactory and gustatory functions.
- To provide an overview of publication trends and research hotspots in this field.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was conducted using the Scopus database.
- Bibliometric indicators including publication types, countries, institutions, journals, citations, and funding agencies were analyzed.
- VOSviewer software was employed for data visualization, hotspot identification, and collaboration pattern analysis.
Main Results:
- A total of 1740 documents related to olfactory and/or gustatory dysfunction in COVID-19 were identified.
- The leading countries in publications were the United States (20.80%), Italy (14.66%), and the United Kingdom (9.94%).
- Research clustered into two main themes: "diagnosis and test methods" and "prognosis and complications of the disease."
Conclusions:
- This is the first bibliometric study focusing on COVID-19 and olfactory/gustatory dysfunction.
- The findings offer valuable insights into publication patterns and influential research for academics and scientists.
- Olfactory and/or gustatory dysfunction are emerging as significant indicators for the empirical diagnosis of COVID-19.
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