Drug-induced dysgeusia
Alerts and Notices
Synopsis
Patients may report a sour, salty, bitter, or metallic taste and may mistake an impaired sense of smell for a taste disorder. This particularly affects elderly patients due to polypharmacy. Dysgeusia in elderly patients can lead to decreased calorie consumption, weight loss, and nutrient deficiencies.
Management may involve medication or dosage change, cessation of smoking, modifications to diet and nutrition, and patient education.
Codes
ICD10CM:R43.2 – Parageusia
SNOMEDCT:
399993004 – Disorder of taste
Look For
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Diagnostic Pearls
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Differential Diagnosis & Pitfalls
- Acid reflux (see gastroesophageal reflux disease)
- Head and neck cancer (see nasopharyngeal cancer)
- Poor oral hygiene
- Tobacco use
- Xerostomia
- Zinc deficiency (see acquired acrodermatitis enteropathica)
- Injury to glossopharyngeal nerve
- Burning mouth syndrome
- Traumatic brain injury
Best Tests
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Management Pearls
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Therapy
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Drug Reaction Data
Below is a list of drugs with literature evidence indicating an adverse association with this diagnosis. The list is continually updated through ongoing research and new medication approvals. Click on Citations to sort by number of citations or click on Medication to sort the medications alphabetically.Subscription Required
References
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Last Reviewed:08/12/2019
Last Updated:08/12/2019
Last Updated:08/12/2019