Abstract
Olfactory function tests performed in clinical settings were reviewed. Olfactory function tests are classified by subjective and objective testing, however objective testing is not commonly used in the clinical setting, only subjective testing is performed. The subjective testing is divided into three components; threshold, identification, and discrimination testing. The T&T olfactometer is recognized as a standard olfactory test in Japan and measures both threshold and odor identification function. However, it is rarely used in clinical settings because of the complexity of testing and problems associated with ventilation and residual odors in the environment. Recently two new olfactory function tests have been developed and are available to measure odor identification ability, Odor Sticks and Open Essence. They are very effective methods for the assessment and identification of patients with olfactory dysfunction, however they cannot be used as a clinical test because insurance approval has not yet obtained. With clinical application of the objective testing, it is demanded in future that an examination for these identification testings comes to be used at a clinical place.
