Systematic Review of Dysgeusia Frequency Following Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant.

OBJECTIVES

In this systematic review, we aimed to shed light on the frequency of dysgeusia among patients who had received hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and to determine factors that may be conducive to this buccal symptom.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a systematic review of the literature on frequency of dysgeusia in patients who received hematopoietic stem cell transplant. We searched PubMed, PMC-PubMed, and Web of Science and followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-analyses statement.

RESULTS

We identified 15 studies. The global frequency of dysgeusia varied greatly, ranging from 16.7% to 95%. Allogeneic stem cell transplant, including cells from other individuals, had more secondary effects than autologous transplant. Rate of dysgeusia was higher at the beginning of treatment. We found some differences according to populations, with dysgeusia increasing with age. Pediatric patients recovered more quickly, perhaps as a result of their faster cell division and development of taste receptors.

CONCLUSIONS

Dysgeusia can greatly affect quality of life during graft treatment. The frequency can vary according to a number of factors, which are different targets in treatment. Symptom management during transplant seems to contribute to overall improvement in treatment.