Treatment strategies for postviral olfactory dysfunction: A systematic review

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Infectious Diseases
• Evidence-Based Medicine

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a significant rise in postviral olfactory dysfunction (PVOD).
• A current review of PVOD treatments is crucial for enhancing patient care.
• Evidence-based strategies are needed to manage this growing condition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To qualitatively review existing evidence on medical and procedural treatments for PVOD.
• To systematically assess the quality of data and evidence levels for PVOD interventions.
• To develop current treatment recommendations based on scientific evidence.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review identified primary studies on PVOD treatment outcomes.
• Searches of medical literature databases (1998-2020) and reference lists were conducted.
• Validated tools assessed study bias, informing evidence levels and treatment recommendations.

Main Results:

• Twenty-two publications were reviewed, detailing outcomes for various treatments.
• Interventions included alpha-lipoic acid, corticosteroids, minocycline, zinc sulfate, vitamin A, and others.
• The review also examined traditional Chinese acupuncture and olfactory training.

Conclusions:

• Several medical and procedural interventions may accelerate olfactory function recovery in PVOD.
• Olfactory training is identified as a primary, first-line intervention.
• Further research is necessary to establish specific COVID-19-related PVOD treatment guidelines.