A case of anosmia and hypogeusia as a complication of propofol

J Anesth. 2018 Apr;32(2):293-296. doi: 10.1007/s00540-018-2461-4. Epub 2018 Feb 23.

Abstract

Anesthetics represent an uncommon cause of taste and smell disorders. We describe a case of anosmia and hypogeusia for 6 weeks after recovery from a uterine curettage operation in a 32-year-old woman. The case is unusual because propofol was the only anesthetic used during surgery and anesthesia. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed no abnormality. This case may highly suggest that propofol could induce smell and taste disorders.

Keywords: Anosmia; Hypogeusia; Propofol.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Ageusia / chemically induced*
  • Anesthesia, General / adverse effects*
  • Brain / diagnostic imaging
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Olfaction Disorders / chemically induced*
  • Propofol / adverse effects*

Substances

  • Propofol