J Rhinol.  2010 Nov;17(2):73-77.

Iatrogenic Taste Disorder

• Ye MK

Abstract

Taste is a critical component of a person's overall sense of well-being and quality of life. Loss of taste interferes with pleasure derived from food and food-related activities. Clinically, taste disorders are less common than smell disorders and therefore the work-up and understanding of taste disorders are limited. Taste is typically ignored by otolaryngologists, even though some otolaryngologic operative procedures compromise the functioning of this sense. Long-lasting postoperative dysgeusia is less frequent but has significant consequences on patients' quality of life, with some cases leading to medicolegal issues. Many drugs can affect the patient's sense of taste and contribute significantly to the morbidity of the associated illness. This report provides a brief overview of iatrogenic taste disorders and emphasizes the need for increased awareness among clinicians regarding these problems.

Keyword

Taste disorders; Dysgeusia; Iatrogenic disease; Tonsillectomy

MeSH Terms

Dysgeusia
Iatrogenic Disease
Olfaction Disorders
Pleasure
Quality of Life
Surgical Procedures, Operative
Taste Disorders
Tonsillectomy