Brain scans reveal secrets of lost smell

NCT ID NCT07149428

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Aug 14, 2026 · Updated 35 times

Summary

This study tracks 80 adults with different smell disorders (like total loss, partial loss, or distorted smell) plus healthy volunteers over one year. Researchers use brain scans, smell tests, and questionnaires to see how the brain changes and how smell loss impacts mood and daily life. The goal is to better understand these conditions, not to test a new treatment.

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 study could reveal how different smell disorders change brain activity and structure, pointing toward better ways to diagnose or treat these conditions.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early pilot study (80 people) that only observes and measures—it does not test any treatment. Results may not apply to everyone with smell loss.

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.

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • National Institutes of Health Clinical Center

    Bethesda, Maryland, 20892, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.