Development of a Digital Olfactory Function Test: A Preliminary Study

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Medical Technology

Background:

• Olfactory dysfunction is linked to various health conditions, including neurodegenerative diseases, diabetes, and mental illnesses.
• The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for examiner-independent olfactory testing methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the suitability of a newly developed digital olfactory function test, Digitalscent.
• To assess Digitalscent's potential as a replacement for conventional psychophysical olfactory tests.

Main Methods:

• Digitalscent, a kiosk-type device, was developed following standard olfactory test protocols (threshold, discrimination, identification).
• Eight healthy participants completed both the YSK olfactory function test and the Digitalscent test.
• Pearson correlations were used to compare results between the two tests.

Main Results:

• Digitalscent proved suitable for implementation as a conventional olfactory function test.
• All participants successfully completed the Digitalscent test protocols.
• Limitations included participant unfamiliarity with digital testing and odorant release sophistication; a strength was dual sensory stimulation.

Conclusions:

• Digitalscent can be implemented as a conventional olfactory function test.
• The digital test can enable early diagnosis of olfactory dysfunction without facilitating viral transmission, crucial during pandemics.
• Further research with larger sample sizes is recommended for wider adoption.