Evaluation and treatment of anosmia

Abstract

Loss of the sense of smell is an uncommon, but troublesome symptom. Head trauma, sinonasal disease, and postviral account for approximately 60% of cases, with an additional 20% due to less common origins. This leaves 20% of cases in the “idiopathic” classification. With a good history and comprehensive physical examination, supplemented by appropriate ancillary testing, the majority of patients can be properly diagnosed and, many, treated.