Anosmia after traumatic brain injury: a clinical update.

Abstract

Most people only recognise the value of olfactory function after it is lost. In the context of traumatic brain injury with its far-reaching physical, cognitive, behavioural and emotional sequelae, posttraumatic olfactory dysfunction is an additional consequence that many survivors have to face as they adjust to a changed life situation. The aim of this article is to provide an update on posttraumatic anosmia for clinicians working in the area of brain injury rehabilitation. Brief reviews of incidence studies and causal mechanisms of olfactory impairment after brain injury are provided. Consequences of anosmia in the domains of safety, eating, personal hygiene, leisure, work and relationships with associated adaptive strategies are described.