Parosmia
ICD-10 R43.1 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of parosmia.
Parosmia is a disorder characterized by a distorted sense of smell, where familiar odors are perceived as unpleasant or different from their normal scent. This condition can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to difficulties in eating and social interactions. Parosmia often arises following viral infections, particularly upper respiratory infections, and can be associated with neurological conditions such as Parkinson's disease or Alzheimer's disease. It may also occur as a result of head trauma or exposure to certain chemicals. The clinical presentation typically includes a patient reporting that common smells, such as food or perfumes, are perceived in a distorted manner, which can lead to aversions to certain foods or environments. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on patient history and symptom description, as there are no specific laboratory tests for parosmia. However, olfactory testing may be utilized to assess the extent of olfactory dysfunction. Understanding the underlying cause is crucial for management and treatment.
Detailed patient history, including onset, duration, and associated symptoms.
Patients presenting with altered smell following a viral infection or head trauma.
Consideration of comorbid conditions that may affect olfactory function.
Acute assessment of symptoms, including any recent head trauma or infections.
Patients with acute onset of parosmia following a respiratory illness.
Rapid assessment and documentation of potential underlying causes.
Used to assess the extent of olfactory dysfunction in patients with parosmia.
Document the rationale for testing and the patient's reported symptoms.
Otolaryngology may frequently utilize these tests for diagnosis.
Parosmia is a distortion of smell where familiar odors are perceived differently, while anosmia is the complete loss of the sense of smell.
