Taste and smell. Neglected senses that contribute to the malnutrition of AIDS

Abstract

Taste and smell loss (due to medications, oral pathology such as candidiasis, and peripheral or central nervous system disease) are well documented in HIV-infected people. These chemosensory abnormalities can impair food intake and contribute to wasting. An understanding of the how medications affect the senses of taste and smell may allow clinicians to choose medications based in part on these side effects. Meanwhile, the use of flavor enhancers to improve food intake may help the nutrition of patients who have suffered taste and smell losses.