June 19, 2020

Prevalence of Taste and Smell Dysfunction in Coronavirus Disease 2019

Category: Article Summary

Topic: Clinical Characteristics and Health Care Setting

• A retrospective telephone survey of patients diagnosed with COVID-19 during March 5-23, 2020 (n=204) found that 57% reported reduction of taste and/or smell prior to diagnosis and that 40% reported reduction of both taste and smell prior to diagnosis. 55% reported taste reduction and 41% reported smell reduction.  Nasal obstruction was rare among patients with severe taste or smell reduction. Changes to taste and smell may be a frequent and early symptom of COVID-19.  

Mercante et al. (June 18, 2020). Prevalence of Taste and Smell Dysfunction in Coronavirus Disease 2019. JAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamaoto.2020.1155