The current possibilities of diagnosing and therapies for olfactory disorders

ABSTRACT

Introduction

Olfactory disorders significantly affect individuals, diminishing their capacity to detect dangers, appreciate flavors, and engage socially. Despite their considerable impact on quality of life, these disorders often receive less attention compared to other sensory impairments. This review emphasizes the importance of olfactory function and explores both traditional and innovative diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.

Areas Covered

This review comprehensively covers the pathophysiology, diagnostic challenges, and treatment options for olfactory disorders. It delves into the nuances of different disorders, such as anosmia and parosmia, and discusses the array of diagnostic tools from traditional sniff tests to advanced imaging techniques. The review also evaluates therapeutic strategies, from pharmacological treatments to emerging therapies like electrical stimulation and regenerative medicine, highlighting recent advances in the field.

Expert Opinion

Current insights suggest a growing recognition of the significance of olfactory disorders, driven by recent pandemics and advances in diagnostic and therapeutic technologies. Future perspectives indicate a promising direction toward more personalized medicine approaches and enhanced regenerative therapies. Continuous research and improved clinical awareness are critical for evolving the management strategies of olfactory impairments, potentially leading to better patient outcomes and quality of life enhancements.

KEYWORDS:

• Olfactory dysfunction
• anosmia
• diagnosis
• treatment
• stem cell therapy
• electrical stimulation
• olfactory training
• regenerative medicine

Article highlights

• Provides a comprehensive review of the pathophysiology, diagnostic challenges, and treatment options for olfactory disorders.

• Evaluates both traditional and emerging therapies, such as electrical stimulation and regenerative medicine.

• Discusses advanced diagnostic tools including functional imaging and genetic testing.

• Emphasizes the potential of personalized medicine and regenerative therapies for future treatments.

• Provides the perspective of a research group whose investigative efforts have been predominantly focused on olfaction for over 30 years.

Declaration of interests

The authors have no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.

Reviewer disclosures

Peer reviewers on this manuscript have no relevant financial or other relationships to disclose.

Additional information

Funding

This paper was not funded.