Post-injury smell disorders.

UNLABELLED

Post-injury smell disorders.

PROBLEMS/OBJECTIVES: Head trauma is the third most common aetioiogy of post-traumatic olfactory loss (PTOL). This literature review aims to report the existing knowledge surrounding this issue, exploring the current understanding of the inducing pathogenesis and the assessment and management standards from the early phases to longer-term considerations.

METHODOLOGY

Literature search and appraisal in PubMed on the following themes directly associated with PTOL: olfactory disorders, trauma, pathogenesis, examination, recovery and treatment.

RESULTS

Scientific evidence was mainly available for epidemiology and exploration tools in cases suffering from PTOL. The current research into obj6ctive batteries of olfactory tests is promising.

CONCLUSIONS

This paper highlights the importance of an adequate assessment of PTOL for an early start in olfactory training.