Prevalence, clinical significance and possible correction of taste and smell abnormalities in patients with oncological diseases

Abstract

The article discusses main issues relating to abnormal taste and smell, which may an oncologist come across in the treatment practice. It also describes mechanisms of dysgeusia and disosmia development, as well as their relationship with nutritional deficiency. Authors review approaches to assess sensory disorders before treatment, at all the stages and after radiation therapy and chemotherapy. They present the world experience in managing patients with the abnormalities and their possible correction.

Keywords

• oncological diseases
• sensory disorder
• dysgeusia
• disosmia
• radiation therapy
• chemotherapy
• life quality
• accompanying therapy
• nutritive insufficiency
• nutritive support