Olfactory Nerve Testing
Olfactory Nerve Testing - Related Videos
09:00
Olfactory Behavioral Testing in the Adult Mouse
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Cited by 68 •
2009
Fundamental, yet unique properties of the rodent olfactory system have led to its increasing study among biologists. A relatively simple assessment of its function is then also needed. Here we describe sensitive tests for the characterization of mouse olfactory sensitivity and preference.
06:40
Simple and Computer-assisted Olfactory Testing for Mice
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Cited by 9 •
2015
We present a simple and unbiased olfactory test in mice. With this protocol olfactory discrimination, preference, avoidance and sensitivity to a novel odor as compared to water can be assessed in single behavioral sessions. This method is indicated for a single experimenter and analysis is based on computer-assisted video processing.
10:33
Transplantation of Olfactory Ensheathing Cells to Evaluate Functional Recovery after Peripheral Nerve Injury
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Cited by 16 •
2014
Olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs) are neural crest cells which allow growth of the primary olfactory neurons. This specific property can be used for cellular transplantation. We present here a model of cellular transplantation based on the use of OECs in a laryngeal nerve injury model.
08:23
Chronic Constriction of the Sciatic Nerve and Pain Hypersensitivity Testing in Rats
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Cited by 151 •
2012
Due to the simplicity of surgery and the robust behavioural outcome, chronic constriction of the sciatic nerve is one of the pre-eminent animal models of neuropathic pain. Within 24 hrs following surgery, pain hypersensitivity is established and can be quantitatively measured using a von Frey aesthesiometer (mechanical test) and plantar analgesia meter (thermal test).
04:42
In Vivo Biomechanical Testing of Nerve: A Procedure for Biomechanical Analysis of Brachial Plexus Nerve Injury in a Neonatal Pig Model
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2025
In this video, we demonstrate the biomechanical testing of the brachial plexus nerve in a pig model to measure the threshold tensile strength of the nerve when subjected to stretching. This technique helps in determining the structural and mechanical properties of the nerve.
FAQs
These measures examine different aspects of smell function. Threshold testing addresses the minimum odor strength a person can detect, discrimination assesses whether different odors can be distinguished, and identification evaluates whether an odor can be recognized or named. Comparing these results helps characterize the pattern of impairment rather than reducing olfactory performance to a single overall score.
Testing each nostril separately allows clinicians to compare olfactory performance between the two nasal passages. This side-specific approach can reveal whether smell function is similarly reduced bilaterally or differs from one side to the other. Such comparisons add clinical detail when interpreting odor threshold, discrimination, and identification results.
Results may help distinguish a conductive problem, in which odor access is affected, from neural or central dysfunction involving the olfactory nerve or related brain pathways. The distinction depends on the pattern across testing measures and clinical context, so olfactory findings contribute to evaluation rather than independently establishing a specific cause.
Olfactory impairment does not always appear as reduced sensitivity. Some patients experience distorted perception, meaning an odor may be sensed but experienced inaccurately or differently from expected. Recognizing this pattern is clinically important because testing can characterize changes in the quality of smell as well as reduced ability to detect, distinguish, or identify odors.
A clinician presents standardized odorants under controlled conditions, commonly assessing one nostril at a time. The patient’s responses are used to evaluate odor threshold, discrimination, and identification. Recording these distinct outcomes provides a structured profile of olfactory function and supports comparison with the patient’s symptoms and relevant clinical history.
Clinicians may use the assessment when evaluating smell changes after head injury or respiratory infection, and when investigating possible neurodegenerative disease or other disorders. Repeated testing can also provide an objective measure for monitoring recovery or progression, helping show whether olfactory function changes over time rather than relying only on subjective reports.