OLFACTORY THRESHOLD AFTER NASAL ALLERGEN CHALLENGE

Olfactory threshold was investigated in patients with verified allergi c rhinitis to birch pollen. In 20 patients the olfactory threshold was measured before and after challenge with topically applied birch poll en allergen during a non-symptomatic period. After provocation a stati stically significant impaired detection sensitivity was found. The cha nge in olfactory threshold was correlated with the measured amount of nasal secretions but not with subjectively or objectively registered n asal obstruction. A pronounced allergic reaction after allergen challe nge is accompanied by an elevated olfactory threshold.