What this study looked at
The mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS) are chronic, progressive lysosomal metabolic diseases in which undigested storage material builds up in many organs, including the mucous membranes of the upper airway. Since no one had previously examined smell and taste in these patients, this study tested both senses in 15 children and young people, aged 6 to 20, who were receiving regular enzyme replacement therapy.
Key takeaways
- Testing of smell showed a normal sense of smell in all patients, although the youngest children did not recognise two of the scents.
- Testing of taste was normal in the older children and adolescents, while all of the younger children showed some disturbance of taste.
- Overall the patients had no change in their sense of smell and only a partial change in taste, and the authors call for further studies to understand the causes.
Why it matters
Because storage material affects the airway lining and tongue, understanding how smell and taste are affected adds to the wider picture of how MPS influences everyday sensory experience in children.
