Olfactory and Gustatory Dysfunction in COVID-19 Patients: A Tertiary Care Institute Experience in India

Abstract

COVID-19 epidemic has varied spectrum of symptoms. With this study we aim to evaluate prevalence of Olfactory and Gustatory dysfunction in COVID-19 patients. To assess Olfactory and Gustatory dysfunction in COVID-19 Patients in Indian Population. Settings and Design: Prospective observational study. RT-PCR proven COVID-19 patients were enrolled in the study. Detailed history and olfactory function and Taste function were evaluated. Patient with symptoms of olfactory dysfunction were subjected to fill (sQOD-NS questionnaire). Re-evaluation was done weekly till the time of discharge. Analysis was done with Wilcoxon test with help of SPSS software. A total of 152 patients (Male-78, Female-74) completed the study after weekly evaluation. Olfactory and Gustatory dysfunction was seen in 28 (18.41%) and 20 (13.15%). Mean duration of symptoms was 2.4444 ± 0.352 days. Olfactory dysfunction was the first presenting symptom in 11 out of 152 patients (7.23%). Mean QD-NOS score in patients with Anosmia and Hyposmia (28 patients) was 11.4 ± 2.01 and 13.61 ± 2.82 at 1st evaluation, 20.3 ± 1.49 and 20.33 ± 1.57 at 7th day and 21 in both subgroups at 14th day follow up. Dysgeusia was noticed in 20/152 patients (13.15%). Recovery in olfactory dysfunction and Dysgeusia was complete in all patients. Olfactory and gustatory dysfunctions are significant part of clinical spectrum of COVID-19 disease In Indian Population.