Understanding Olfactory Disorders

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: The patient with sense of smell disorders presents a unique diagnostic and management dilemma to the practicing otolaryngologist. This course is designed to 1) help physicians understand the possible pathological mechanisms behind olfactory disorders in order to educate their patients,
2) provide an outline of useful questions, pertinent physical exam findings, and appropriate tests to aid in the diagnosis, and 3) explain the types
of therapies available and discuss the evidence supporting their use. Given the recent COVID-19 pandemic and the association with smell loss,
some portion of the session will concentrate on this topic specifically. A didactic format will be used to present information, while case
presentations will be utilized to reinforce these concepts and allow for audience participation.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 1: Understand the pathophysiology of common olfactory disorders.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 2: Be able to diagnose olfactory disorders through a detailed patient history and physical exam while choosing appropriate tests.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 3: Understand the current therapies of olfactory disorders that are available and their limitations.

BACKGROUND STATEMENT: Some anxiety exists on the part of general otolaryngology practitioners in being able to provide adequate care for patients with smell disorders.
We aim to provide guidelines for the evaluation, work-up, and treatment options for these patients.