Olfactory performance assessed via a new odour recognition test: Reliability and normative data

Olfactory disorders have been documented both in ageing and in various neurodegenerative and psychiatric conditions, with memory loss as a frequent feature. The present investigation aimed at developing a standardised multiple choice odour recognition test, based on the "Sniffin Sticks'' test kit. The test was applied on two occasions at a distance of approximately 2 weeks from each other to a group of 108 normosmic, healthy volunteers (51 men, 57 women, age range 18-95 years). The results showed that performance decreased significantly with increasing age, particularly after the age of 60. The test-retest Pearson's coefficient of correlation between the two repeated administrations was .90, indicating a high reliability of the task. No sex-related differences were found. These data suggest that the present odour recognition memory test may be suitable for the routine clinical assessment of olfactory performance.