The shelf life of the University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT).
The shelf life of the University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test was studied by comparing, using a within-subjects design, scores for tests manufactured within 2 months of the time of testing, 2 1/2 years before the time of testing, and 4 years before testing. A three-way analysis of variance (test age by gender by booklet presentation order) revealed no significant effects of test age, presentation order, or any of the interactions on the average test scores. However, a significant gender main effect was observed (the women outperformed the men). The number of persons who correctly identified each test item was examined using the Cochran Q test. A significant difference was found among the three groups for only one of the 40 items (lemon). The percentage of persons who correctly identified lemon was lowest with the 4-year-old tests (respective percentages of correct values for the recent, 2 1/2-year, and 4-year tests were 100%, 97%, and 67%). It is not clear, however, whether this variation is the result of test age, per se, or vagaries in the manufacturing process. Overall, the data indicate that tests stored in a dry place at room temperature have a long shelf life and can be validly used for assessing patient smell function.
Doty
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RL
Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Human Communication, School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania 19104.
Agrawal
U
U
D000328:Adult; D004355:Drug Stability; D004356:Drug Storage; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009812:Odorants; D011933:Reagent Kits, Diagnostic / Q000592:standards*; D012903:Smell; D013997:Time Factors
D011933:Reagent Kits, Diagnostic