1- Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
2- Neuroscience Research Center, Biomedical Research Institute, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
3- Department Biochemistry and Medical Physics, Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran ,golshad.niknam@gmail.com
2- Neuroscience Research Center, Biomedical Research Institute, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
3- Department Biochemistry and Medical Physics, Faculty of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran ,
Abstract: (362 Views)
Background: Radiotherapy (RT) is an important intervention for head and neck cancer (HNC). Many studies have reported the effects of RT on patients' taste and smell sensations, food intake, and decreased appetite. Therefore, understanding these changes is important for managing side effects and improving patients' quality of life. The aim of this study was to assess changes in olfactory and gustatory perception in patients who underwent RT at the Shafa Center, 5 Azar Hospital, Gorgan, Iran, in 2024, using a questionnaire.
Methods: The olfactory and gustatory functions of the patients were assessed using a modified taste and smell alterations questionnaire administered through patient interviews. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS v.20 software. Patients underwent 20 to 35 radiotherapy sessions, with a radiation dose range of 30 to 60 Gy. Patients receiving chemotherapy were excluded.
Results: The results showed that 65% of patients experienced taste alterations, and 55% reported smell alterations. The most common taste change was a metallic taste (45%), followed by reduced sensitivity to sweet taste (35%).
Conclusion: This study demonstrates that smell and taste alterations are side effects of radiotherapy in patients with HNC. It is also recommended that the olfactory and gustatory side effects of each radiotherapy regimen be studied separately to provide clearer insights.
Methods: The olfactory and gustatory functions of the patients were assessed using a modified taste and smell alterations questionnaire administered through patient interviews. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS v.20 software. Patients underwent 20 to 35 radiotherapy sessions, with a radiation dose range of 30 to 60 Gy. Patients receiving chemotherapy were excluded.
Results: The results showed that 65% of patients experienced taste alterations, and 55% reported smell alterations. The most common taste change was a metallic taste (45%), followed by reduced sensitivity to sweet taste (35%).
Conclusion: This study demonstrates that smell and taste alterations are side effects of radiotherapy in patients with HNC. It is also recommended that the olfactory and gustatory side effects of each radiotherapy regimen be studied separately to provide clearer insights.
Article Type: Research |
Subject:
Physiology
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