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The Olfactory System: Basic Anatomy and Physiology for General Otorhinolaryngologists.

Sun A Han1, Jin Kook Kim2, Do-Yeon Cho3,4

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Summary

The sense of smell, or olfaction, significantly impacts health and quality of life. Recent attention on smell loss in COVID-19 highlights its importance and connection to neurological conditions.

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Olfactory ImpairmentOlfactory PathwayOlfactory PerceptionOlfactory TractSmellTaste

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Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Otorhinolaryngology
  • Sensory Science

Background:

  • Olfaction is a primitive sense crucial for survival, social bonding, and reproduction.
  • Despite its importance, olfaction has been scientifically understudied compared to other senses.
  • Loss of smell (anosmia) is a key symptom of COVID-19, increasing research interest.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide otorhinolaryngologists with essential knowledge on the olfactory system.
  • To discuss the peripheral and central olfactory pathways.
  • To aid in the management of olfactory dysfunction.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current scientific literature on olfaction.
  • Analysis of olfactory dysfunction associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection.
  • Summary of neuroanatomical and physiological aspects of the olfactory system.

Main Results:

  • Olfactory dysfunction can be conductive or sensorineural, potentially causing brain structure changes.
  • Olfactory training shows promise in treating smell dysfunction by promoting neural reorganization.
  • Reduced sense of smell may indicate underlying neurodegenerative or psychiatric disorders.

Conclusions:

  • Olfaction remains vital for human interaction, health, and well-being.
  • Understanding olfactory pathways is critical for diagnosing and managing smell disorders.
  • Further research into olfaction is warranted given its implications for overall health and disease detection.