[Taste and smell loss in patients with COVID-19]

Ugeskr Laeger. 2020 Aug 31;182(36):V06200442.
[Article in Danish]

Abstract

In the aftermath of COVID-19, the association between SARS-CoV-2 and chemosensory deficits have been well established. Taste and smell loss have been included in the official lists of symptoms worldwide, as it is a common symptom (and for some patients the only symptom) of COVID-19 as described in this review. Patients with COVID-19 often have combined taste and smell loss, have a milder clinical presentation, and are younger than previous patients with postviral olfactory loss. Patients should start olfactory training early and should be seen by an ear, nose and throat physician if they do not experience improvement of the senses within 12 weeks.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Betacoronavirus
  • COVID-19
  • Coronavirus Infections / complications*
  • Humans
  • Olfaction Disorders / virology*
  • Pandemics
  • Pneumonia, Viral / complications*
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Taste Disorders / virology*