Assessment of Chemosensory Function Using "Sniffin' Sticks", Taste Strips, Taste Sprays, and Retronasal Olfactory Tests.

BACKGROUND

Approximately 5% of the general population is affected by functional anosmia. An additional 15% exhibit decreased olfactory function. Many of these individuals ask ENT-doctors or neurologists for help. A cornerstone of the counselling process is the assessment of olfactory function. The aim of this work is to give a differentiated overview about the administration of commonly used psychophysical tests for olfactory and gustatory function including their normative data.

CONCLUSION

The use of standardized, reliable and validated tools is mandatory to provide patients with state-of the-art counseling on treatment options.