Consequences of gaining olfactory function after lifelong anosmia

Neurocase. 2021 Jun;27(3):238-242. doi: 10.1080/13554794.2021.1921221. Epub 2021 May 18.

Abstract

We present a rare case in which a patient has gained her smell after lifelong anosmia. The patient was objectively tested and diagnosed with functional anosmia at age 13 and reported they were experiencing a new sensation of smell at age 22. Our results show an electrophysiological signal for two unimodal odorants. The patient had a retronasal score in the hyposmic range and self-reported the ability to smell non-trigeminal odors, but reported being disturbed by the presence of the new sense and co-occurrence of phantosmia. We discuss our case in routes of neurogenesis and non-forming memory association with odors.

Keywords: Ansomia; congenital; memory; neurogenesis; new sense; olfactory recovery; phantosmia.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Anosmia*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Odorants
  • Olfaction Disorders*
  • Smell
  • Young Adult