Olfactory Sensations During Radiation Sessions: A Review

PURPOSE: During radiation therapy sessions, certain patients may perceive smells, particularly in younger populations. The sense of smell generally does not interrupt treatment; hence, it has attracted limited attention from oncologists worldwide. However, in certain cases, the prevention of smell perception may be necessary when treating pediatric patients. In this regard, this study reviewed previous studies pertaining to this unusual phenomenon of smell perception during radiation sessions. METHODS AND MATERIALS: A PubMed search using the terms “radi*” AND (“olfaction” OR “odor” OR “smell” OR “phantosmia”) was performed, and 9 articles related to this sensation were identified. Furthermore, through the references in these 9 articles, 3 additional related studies were identified. RESULTS: Perception of smell during radiation treatment sessions was first reported in 1989. This phenomenon entails the perception of a pungent, repulsive, and unpleasant smell and is generally only observed in the presence of radiation beams. Occasionally, these smell perceptions are also accompanied by visual and gustatory sensations. Patients complain about this sensation more frequently when their olfactory regions are irradiated. Nevertheless, some patients have also reported experiencing this sensation when these areas are not included in the radiation field. Although the intensity of this sensation is low, intervention is required to prevent it. The cause of this perception remains unclear and requires further investigation. CONCLUSIONS: Conclusions: During radiotherapy sessions, certain patients may perceive smells. The cause of this perception remains unclear and requires further investigation.