Investigating olfactory and gustatory dysfunction in patients with restless legs syndrome: A comparative analysis with healthy controls

Background/Aim: This study aims to examine the correlation between dopamine deficiency and olfactory dysfunction in patients with restless legs syndrome (RLS) and to juxtapose these findings with gustatory function. This comprehension of the relationship may illuminate the pathophysiology of RLS, suggesting possible therapeutic targets. Methods: We included a total of 100 male participants aged 40 and older, comprising 50 healthy volunteers and 50 patients with RLS. Participants were recruited from the Neurology Clinic at Sultan Abdulhamid Han Training and Research Hospital between September 2016 and April 2017. We objectively assessed olfactory function using the Sniffin’ Sticks Test Battery, while gustatory function was evaluated using the Taste Strip test—participants identified the flavors presented to them. Results: The mean age of the RLS patient group was 52.5 years, while it was 52.7 years for the healthy group. Olfactory test scores were significantly lower in the RLS group compared to the healthy group (P<0.05). Likewise, gustatory test scores were also significantly lower in RLS patients (P=0.032). A strong positive correlation was observed between the olfactory and gustatory test results (r=+0.72), indicating a significant decline in both sensory functions in RLS patients. Conclusion: This study reveals a significant association between dopamine deficiency, olfactory dysfunction, and impaired taste perception in RLS patients. These findings suggest that RLS may involve underlying neurodegenerative processes affecting sensory perception. Further research is crucial to shed light on RLS mechanisms, which remain partially understood, and guide the development of targeted therapeutic strategies.