Management of post-infectious olfactory dysfunction: a nationwide survey of UK ENT consultants.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the current practice of UK ENT consultants in investigating cases of suspected post-infectious olfactory dysfunction.


METHODS
We prepared questionnaires and posted these to every consultant ENT surgeon registered with the British Association of Otolaryngologists Head and Neck Surgeons (BAO-HNS). Questions included preferred radiological investigation, smelling test and follow up.


RESULTS
A total of 510 questionnaires were sent, with a response rate of 51%. Most UK consultant ENT surgeons investigated suspected post-infectious olfactory dysfunction by performing either a CT (44%) or an MRI (29%) scan, but only 37% performed formal smell tests. Most consultant ENT surgeons (76%) decide not to follow up post-infectious olfactory dysfunction.


CONCLUSIONS
This study gives an indication that suspected post-infectious olfactory dysfunction is not investigated thoroughly in the United Kingdom, with only a minority of clinicians performing formal smell tests and a lack of consensus as to radiological investigation. Standardisation of investigations is key to adequately managing suspected post-infectious olfactory dysfunction.
Williams
G S
GS
Department of Otolaryngology, West Wales General Hospital, Dolgwili Road, Carmarthen, Wales. gwynsamuelwilliams@hotmail.com
Ramachandran
K
K
Nall
L
L
Fong
J
J
Mathews
J
J
D019538:Health Care Surveys; D006801:Humans; D007239:Infections / Q000150:complications; D000857:Olfaction Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology; D010036:Otolaryngology; D010818:Practice Patterns, Physicians' / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D006113:United Kingdom