Minimal requirements for a meaningful workup in patients with smell and taste disorders - A practical guideline based...

Background Despite the high prevalence of smell disorders, there are only a few centres specialising in the evaluation and treatment of patients with smell and taste disorders. While the comprehensive evaluation at centres requires considerable coordination, basic management techniques can be implemented with minimal effort. Summary This manuscript provides guidance on implementing these steps to provide a meaningful workup in patients with smell and taste disorders. Patients can be evaluated using a stepwise process to assess self-reported smell function. Key messages The impact of olfactory dysfunction should be documented using validated, disease-specific quality-of-life questionnaires. Nasal endoscopy is mandatory to rule out sinonasal inflammation, one of the most frequent underlying etiologies of smell disorders. Further comprehensive evaluation must include a thorough patient history and psychophysical tests of odour identification and gustatory function.