Abstract
Background: We performed a meta-analysis to assess the risk factors for olfactory and gustatory dysfunction in patients with COVID-19.Methods: Three databases (PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library) were searched for studies published between December 01, 2019 to May 31, 2021. Select random effects model or fixed effects model to pool data based on heterogeneity. The results were reported as odds ratios or standardized mean differences and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals. Heterogeneity was reported as I2.Findings: Twenty-six studies with a total of 13813 patients were included. The pooled data indicated that sex (OR, 1.47; 95% CI, 0.93-2.31), age (SMD, -5.80; 95% CI, −13.35-1.75), smoking (OR, 2.04; 95% CI, 0.72-5.79), and comorbidity (OR, 1.21; 95% CI, 0.58-2.53) had no effect on gustatory dysfunction in COVID-19 patients. Elderly patients with COVID-19 were more prone to olfactory dysfunction (SMD, -5.22; 95% CI, −8.28- −2.16). COVID-19 patients with nasal congestion (OR, 3.41;95%CI, 2.30-5.06) and rhinorrhea (OR, 2.35; 95%CI, 1.60-3.45) are more likely to suffer from olfactory dysfunction.Interpretation: These findings emphasize that elderly COVID-19 patients are more likely to suffer from olfactory dysfunction. Symptoms of nasal congestion and rhinorrhea may affect the recognition of olfactory dysfunction. Funding Information: No funding received.Declaration of Interests: The authors declare that they have no competing interests.
Published Version
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