title: Steroid-dependent anosmia.
abstract: In steroid-dependent anosmia (nasal polyps, inhalant allergy, anosmia), high doses of steroids will temporarily restore the sense of smell, a diagnostic test. Appropriate surgery can then be carried out, followed by low-dose, long-term steroid therapy to maintain the sense of smell. Olfactory biopsy specimens taken during the course of evaluation and treatment show electron-optically normal olfactory receptors, meaning that the probable pathogenesis of the sensory deficit is an obstruction, mechanical and possibly biochemical. Two cases of steroid-dependent anosmia are presented to detail a fully reversible anosmia using state-of-the-art techniques.
mesh_terms: D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D005005:Ethmoid Sinus / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D000857:Olfaction Disorders / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy*; D013101:Sphenoid Sinus / Q000601:surgery*
chemical_list: D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones