Olfactory dysfunction and COVID-19

Rhea Choi; Rupali Gupta; John B Finlay; Bradley J Goldstein

doi:10.1016/j.otot.2022.04.010

Olfactory dysfunction and COVID-19

Oper Tech Otolayngol Head Neck Surg. 2022 Jun;33(2):141-146. doi: 10.1016/j.otot.2022.04.010. Epub 2022 Apr 29.

Authors

Rhea Choi¹, Rupali Gupta¹, John B Finlay², Bradley J Goldstein^{1

3}

Affiliations

¹ Department of Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, United States.
² Medical Scientist Training Program, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States.
³ Department of Neurobiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States.

Abstract

Here, we provide an overview of olfactory dysfunction associated with COVID-19. We provide background regarding the organization and function of the peripheral olfactory system. A review of the relevant literature on anosmia and parosmia due to infection with SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing COVID-19, is provided. Specific attention is focused on possible mechanisms by which the virus may interact with and damage the cell populations of peripheral olfactory system. Evidence from human studies as well as animal models is considered. Finally, we discuss current recommendations for evaluation and management of patients with persistent post-COVID olfactory dysfunction, as well as possible future research directions.

Keywords: COVID-19; Olfaction; Olfactory dysfunction.

Grants and funding

T32 GM145449/GM/NIGMS NIH HHS/United States