Investigation of Persistent Loss of Smell After COVID-19 Infection Studying Tissue Samples from the Nose to Understand Olfactory Dysfunction

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the persistent loss or alteration of smell olfactory dysfunction in patients who have had COVID-19. The study focuses on understanding the underlying biological mechanisms by examining tissues from the olfactory cleft, the area inside the nose responsible for smell. This exploratory clinical study includes patients with and without olfactory dysfunction and uses advanced techniques to analyze the collected samples. Participants will undergo collection of olfactory cleft biopsies and cytobrush samples. These samples are taken either during a scheduled procedure under general anesthesia or during a consultation under local anesthesia. The collected tissues will be studied using single cell RNA sequencing and RNAscope combined with immunohistochemistry to explore molecular and cellular changes. During the study, patients will receive standard care during ENT consultations and diagnostic procedures. The main outcome measures include detailed analysis of the biopsies and cytobrush samples within one month of enrollment. Participants will be monitored by researchers to assess olfactory function and tissue changes. The study is expected to complete by the end of 2026.

Dysfunction of Olfaction After COVID-19 Infection: Morphological and Histomolecular Investigation