Author:

Abstract:

Taste is an important sense organ with multiple functions in living organisms, also in humans. Taste disorders, especially loss of taste (hypo- or agusia) and bad taste (dysgusia) frequently occur in cancer patients. There are several causes related either to the cancer itself or to the treatment (surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, other drugs). Many physicians pay relatively little attention to these complaints. However, taste loss can significantly impair the quality of life of the patient. Moreover, it can cause anorexia and weight loss. An overview is presented of the different taste disorders which can occur in cancer patients, and their causes. Practical guidelines are proposed for the management of this problem.