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Spontaneous resolution of dysgeusia
D A Deems1, D M Yen, A Kreshak
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, USA.
Archives of Otolaryngology--Head & Neck Surgery
|September 1, 1996
Summary
Most cases of dysgeusia (distortion of taste) resolve on their own within 10 months. This study found a link between taste disorder recovery and depression levels.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Neurology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Dysgeusia, a taste distortion affecting many Americans, is often considered untreatable.
- Limited data exists for patient counseling on dysgeusia recovery probabilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the likelihood of symptom resolution in patients diagnosed with dysgeusia.
- To analyze recovery rates from dysgeusia at a specialized smell and taste center.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 117 patients with primary dysgeusia complaints.
- Telephone interviews and questionnaires, including a dysgeusia severity scale and Beck Depression Inventory, were administered to 48 participants.
Main Results:
- Two-thirds of patients experienced spontaneous resolution of dysgeusia.
- The average duration for symptom resolution was 10 months.
- A significant correlation was observed between dysgeusia resolution and depression status.
Conclusions:
- Dysgeusia may be more treatable than previously assumed.
- Findings offer hope for patients with this often unrelenting disorder.
- The relationship between depression and taste perception warrants further investigation.