Investigation of chemosensitivity during and after an acute cold. Issue 2 (7th November 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Pellegrino, Robert; Walliczek‐Dworschak, Ute; Winter, Gudrun; Hull, David; Hummel, Thomas
• Is Part Of: International forum of allergy & rhinology. Volume 7:Issue 2(2017:Feb.)
• Page Start: 185
• Page End: 191
• Publication Date: 2016-11-07
• Subjects: quality of life -- taste -- smell -- sinusitis -- trigeminal nerve; 617.51005
• DOI: 10.1002/alr.21869
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2042-6976

Abstract

Abstract : Background: Viral rhinitis (the "common" cold) is a frequent worldwide disease. Olfactory dysfunction is one complication that arises during infection, which in most cases heals up spontaneously upon recovery, whereas in some cases it may persist as a partial or total loss of olfaction. The aim of this prospective study was to investigate the change of other chemosensory systems during a cold. Methods: Fifty‐eight patients (age 18 to 69 years) with an acute cold were compared to a healthy control group (n = 59; age 19 to 63 years). All patients were examined on 2 occasions separated by approximately 4 weeks. Orthonasal, retronasal, gustatory, and trigeminal nasal function were investigated. Furthermore, ratings of real foods, in terms of intensity and pleasantness, were obtained. Results: Compared to the control group, patients showed a decreased orthonasal (threshold and discrimination) and retronasal function. Furthermore, patients exhibited a decreased sensitivity to salt and a reduced ability to localize menthol, indicating a decreased taste and trigeminal function, respectively. Upon recovery from the infection, orthonasal olfactory and trigeminal sensitivity increased, whereas retronasal sensitivity showed no improvement and salt sensitivity decreased. Conclusion: This comprehensive study provides empirical evidence that chemosensory impairment is prevalent during a cold, and additionally shows for the first time that chemosensory features associated with food consumption persist postinfection.