Anosmia and ageusia in COVID-19 patients: Objective testing and Magnetic
Resonance Imaging in five cases
Abstract
Background: Anosmia and ageusia are acknowledged as pathognomonic
symptoms for SARS-CoV-2 infection by now. Smell-and taste disorders were
significantly more frequent in COVID- 19 patients than in influenza
patients. Disease characteristics show an acute onset and an initial
manifestation of anosmia and ageusia. These symptoms have been linked to
a neuroinvasive course of disease. Methods: In this study we
investigated five consecutive COVID-19 patients with a prolonged course
of anosmia and ageusia by conducting a Burghart Screening 12 Test with
taste stripes in the late stage of the disease. Those with objectifiable
alteration in taste or smell were subjected to MRI with contrast agent
to investigate possible involvement of the central nervous system.
Results: We found anosmia and ageusia to be mostly objectifiable, but no
evidence for neuroinvasiveness could be detected by MRI in the late
stage of the disease. Conclusions: Alterations in taste and smell could
be objectified in most patients. Nevertheless, no evidence for a
neuroinvasive potential could be identified by MRI, at least in the late
stage of disease. We encourage medical professionals to conduct
specialised examinations and MRIs in the acute stage of disease, which
guarantees an optimum patient care.