Evaluation of Long-Term Follow-Up Results of Olfactory Dysfunction in Patients with Viral Infections Using the Connecticut Chemosensory Clinical Research Center Test

OBJECTIVE The prevalence of olfactory dysfunction during viral infections, which ranges from 4% to 80%, along with its duration and the factors influencing it, are not well understood. This study examined the progression and contributing factors of olfactory dysfunction over a 24-month follow-up in patients who developed olfactory impairment during the recent pandemic. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was carried out at Konya Selçuk University Faculty of Medicine Hospital from June 1, 2020, to December 31, 2023. Fifty-one patients with olfactory dysfunction identified during COVID-19 infection were included. Demographic data, clinical histories, and laboratory results were recorded for all patients. Olfactory function was assessed using the Connecticut Chemosensory Clinical Research Center (CCCRC) test, and the test was repeated after two years for 49 patients who were available for follow-up. Changes in olfactory function over the two-year period were reevaluated. The duration of olfactory and gustatory dysfunction, types of gustatory impairment, and recovery times were documented. RESULTS A negative correlation was found between patient age and the length of olfactory dysfunction. Patients with pulmonary involvement had significantly longer durations of olfactory dysfunction compared to those without pulmonary involvement. CONCLUSION Although various factors influence the development of olfactory dysfunction during viral infections, it is concluded that olfactory dysfunctions are more common and persistent, particularly in young patients and those with lung involvement.