Gustatory and olfactory function in patients affected by Usher's syndrome

Abstract
Ten patients (five males and five females, 8–27 years of age) diagnosed cases of Usher's syndrome were tested for their gustative and olfactory functions. The tasting of these multiple handicapped patients was carried out by elicitation of innate reflex-like distinct facial expressions in response to gustatory and nasal stimulation. Findings indicate normal gustatory and olfactory function as well as adequate hedonic responses to presented stimuli. In view of the reported findings it can be stated that Usher's syndrome affect selectively the senses of vision, hearing and often also labyrinth, while taste and smell functions are not affected.