Anosmia in the course of COVID-19: A case report

Abstract

Rationale:A sudden onset of anosmia has been recently recognized as a symptom of coronavirus disease (COVID-19).Patient concerns:Here, we describe a case of complete anosmia in a young male with COVID-19. Although he had fever and odynophagia, no abnormalities were observed in his nasopharyngeal mucosa, suggesting that his anosmia resulted from olfactory neuropathy.Diagnoses:COVID-19 was confirmed by RNA detection in nasopharyngeal swab specimen.Interventions:The patient received olfactory training and B complex vitamins.Outcomes:On day 30, the patient reported complete recovery of his sense of smell.Lessons:As early diagnosis is fundamental to control the spread of COVID-19 infection, we emphasize that anosmia identified in febrile cases during the COVID-19 epidemic may be a symptom indicative of the disease. Moreover, COVID-19-related anosmia can be completely reversible.