[Olfactory dysfunctions are substantially more frequent than they are complained]

Abstract

Background: Probably less than 0.1% of the population of the western world might seek medical advice because of olfactory or gustatory dysfunctions. In contrast, it can be assumed that the prevalence of olfactory dysfunction is about 20%. The estimated number of unreported cases must be high. Related to the population of the city of Jena it shall be investigated, how many patients visit a doctor because of an olfactory dysfunction.

Materials and methods: Data of all patients, who underwent olfactory testing at the ENT department of the university hospital in Jena between 1998 and 2004 and had their main residence in Jena were identified. Based on subjective self-assessment of smelling function and on different olfactory test procedures subjectively smelling-disturbed people and objectively smelling-disturbed people were separated. Calculation of the prevalence was based on data from the registration office of Jena.

Results: Related to the total population of Jena 0.23% of Jena's inhabitants underwent olfactory testing procedure between 1998 and 2004. 0.08% complained about subjective olfactory dysfunction. Only 0.05% were really suffering from olfactory dysfunction confirmed by olfactory testing.

Discussion: Only a small percentage of Jena's inhabitants visit a doctor because of olfactory dysfunction. Therefore, in Jena no other health behaviour concerning olfactory disorders can be observed than in other industrial countries. The estimated number of unreported cases of olfactory disturbances is higher than supposed. The medical professional societies should to an increased education of medical doctors and patients regarding symptoms, refined diagnostics, outlook and risen therapeutical chances of olfactory disorders.