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[Gustatory disorders in COVID-19]
N G Zhukova1, N A Kicherov1, M E Semykin1
1Siberian State Medical University» Ministry of Health of Russia, Tomsk, Russia.
Zhurnal Nevrologii I Psikhiatrii Imeni S.S. Korsakova
|December 20, 2022
Summary
Taste disturbances, including dysgeusia, are common in COVID-19, often appearing early. These symptoms can last weeks, particularly in women and the elderly, signaling potential coronavirus infection.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Otolaryngology
Context:
- Taste disturbances affect a significant percentage of COVID-19 patients.
- These symptoms frequently serve as an early indicator of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
- The onset typically occurs 3-7 days post-respiratory symptom manifestation.
Purpose:
- To analyze the prevalence, characteristics, and duration of taste disturbances in COVID-19.
- To identify demographic factors influencing taste alteration severity and recovery.
- To establish taste disturbance as a potential early diagnostic marker for COVID-19.
Summary:
- Prevalence of taste disturbances in COVID-19 ranges from 20.3% to 88.0%, with 11.0%-18.1% experiencing it as an initial symptom.
- Symptoms last 2-16 days, but prolonged alterations (61-76+ days) due to receptor cell damage are noted.
- Severe forms like dysgeusia are more common than hypogeusia or ageusia, with higher incidence and longer recovery in women and the elderly.
Impact:
- Highlights taste disturbance as a key clinical symptom for early COVID-19 detection.
- Provides insights into the pathophysiology and varied clinical presentation of taste loss in COVID-19.
- Informs clinical practice regarding the significance and potential long-term effects of taste alterations post-infection.
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