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Patient case: Anosmia

Patient case: Anosmia

Discussion

A 34-year-old man presents to the clinic with a complaint of a persistent inability to smell, which started a few months ago. He reports no significant nasal congestion or sinus problems but mentions a recent upper respiratory infection that resolved without complications. Since then, he has noticed a complete loss of his sense of smell (anosmia), which has affected his ability to taste food. He denies any head trauma, allergies, or exposure to toxic substances. Physical examination shows normal nasal passages without any obstruction or inflammation. A diagnosis of post-viral anosmia is suspected, and further evaluation, including imaging and olfactory testing, is recommended.

Questions
1. What is the most likely cause of the patient’s anosmia?

a) Nasal polyps

b) Post-viral infection

c) Head trauma

d) Exposure to toxic chemicals

2. Which of the following symptoms is the patient also experiencing?

a) Nasal congestion

b) Facial pain

c) Loss of taste

d) Itchy eyes

3. What was the trigger event for the patient's anosmia?

a) Head trauma

b) Severe allergies

c) Upper respiratory infection

d) Sinus surgery

4. What is the next recommended step in diagnosing the patient's condition?

a) Allergy testing

b) Surgical intervention

c) Imaging and olfactory testing

d) Immediate steroid treatment

Reveal answers

Answers

1. b) Post-viral infection

2. c) Loss of taste

3. c) Upper respiratory infection

4. c) Imaging and olfactory testing