anosmia

The loss of the sense of smell is an unusual symptom which should be taken seriously. It is frequently associated with decreased appetite since the olfactory sense plays a large role in food palatability. Significant weight loss may ensue.

nasal obstruction: polyps, sinusitis
trauma
viral illness
Kallman syndrome (a/w hypogonadism)
neurosyphilis
mass lesion (e.g., meningioma)
zinc deficiency

REF: Scott WW Jr, Scott PP. Consultation in Diagnostic Imaging. pp. 230-231.

Charles E. Kahn, Jr., MD - 2 February 1995
Last updated: 1 September 2006