Olfaction as One of the Key Components of the Neuropsychological Examination

Olfactory deficits are common among nonclinical and clinical patients, particularly in those with neuropsychological conditions. They are, however, often not diagnosed because standard assessments focus on superior cognitive domains and do not examine the senses. Olfactory function greatly impacts mental health and quality of life. It is also associated with the likelihood of developing neurological or psychological conditions and impacts the prognostic and rehabilitative outcomes of patients, particularly in regards to cognitive health. The purpose of this article is to (a) provide an overview of the olfactory sense and its unique characteristics, (b) discuss the scientific literature around olfaction and related neurological and psychological conditions, (c) present common olfactory assessment techniques, and (d) argue for the inclusion of olfactory measures to standard neuropsychological examinations. An olfactory measurement tool is currently being developed that is suitable to supplement neuropsychological examinations.