Olfactory dysfunction in coronavirus disease

Abstract

Olfactory dysfunction may be the only early clinical manifestation in COVID-19 patients with no other significant signs. It is typical of the disease and can be significant for testing. The purpose of the review is to provide guidance to the otorhinolaryngologist in the problem of olfactory dysfunction in SARS-CoV-2 infection. Materials and Methods: The authors analyzed the available clinical data on the problem of olfactory dysfunction in SARS-CoV-2 infection. The data of statistics, clinical symptoms and pathogenesis were studied. Toexplain anosmia in COVID-19 patients, 4 possible mechanisms are considered: nasal congestion / nasal congestion and rhinorrhea; death of olfactory receptor neurons; infiltration of the brain and damage to the olfactorycenters; damage to the supporting cells of the olfactory epithelium. The analysis of clinical cases of patients with prolonged ansomia against the background of COVID-19 was carried out. Conclusions: Smell after COVID-19 in most cases is restored without specific treatment. There are no reports of studies in patients with long-term anosmia.