Abstract

Objectives: Sudden loss of smell (anosmia) and taste (ageusia) are common symptoms in benign to moderate forms of Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19). Many patients recover normal function within two weeks, but some suffer from prolonged abnormalities. This study aimed to identify subjective persistent smell and taste alterations several months after the disease onset.

Subjects and methods: This prospective observational study consisted in online questionnaires addressed to outpatients diagnosed for COVID-19 during the first wave in France, three months and eight months later.

Results: Among 80 participants, 79% self-reported anosmia (mean duration 12 days) and 73% ageusia (13 days). Anosmia was associated with Body Mass Index (BMI) >25. Three months later, at least 18% and 16% of participants had not fully recovered olfaction and taste. Initial anosmia/ageusia episode was >3 weeks. At least 5% reported persistent alterations for more than eight months. Olfactory disturbances were parosmia (distorted odour perception) and phantosmia, with ghost smell such as strong smells of cooking and cold tobacco, nasal stinging, chemical and moldy sensations. Taste disturbances were gustatory and chemesthesis alterations and food disgust (carrots, meat).

Conclusion: Persistent anosmia and ageusia can lead to nutrition disorders and depression, and should be monitored after a COVID-19 episode

Keywords: Anosmia; COVID-19;Ageusia;Parosmia; Phantosmia; SARS-CoV-2