Why does COVID-19 steal your sense of smell? scientists investigate

NCT ID NCT04366934

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Institut Pasteur Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looked at why some COVID-19 patients lose their sense of smell. Researchers compared nasal cell samples from 26 people—some with COVID-19 and smell loss, and some healthy controls. They aimed to find molecular and cellular differences in the nose that might explain the symptom.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

What this could lead to: If successful, this could help explain why some people lose their sense of smell from COVID-19 and point toward future treatments.
What could go wrong: This is a small, completed observational study with only 26 participants, so findings may not apply broadly and do not test any treatment.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Anosmia Coronavinae infectious disease COVID-19 severe acute respiratory syndrome

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

CORONAVIRUS INFECTION SARS-COV2 SEVERE ACUTE RESPIRATORY SYNDROME

Contacts and locations

Locations

Hôpital Lariboisière, Policlinique

Paris, France
Hôpital Lariboisière, Service ORL

Paris, France

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