Disturbances of sensation of smell and taste

This code signifies a patient experiencing an impaired or altered perception of odors (olfactory dysfunction) or flavors (gustatory dysfunction). This can manifest as a complete loss (anosmia/ageusia), a diminished sense (hyposmia/hypogeusia), or a distorted perception (parosmia/dysgeusia).

Assign this code when documentation indicates a patient presents with symptoms such as difficulty smelling, altered taste, or a complete absence of these senses. Supporting documentation would include physician notes detailing patient complaints, examination findings, or diagnostic test results confirming sensory deficits related to smell or taste.

• Do not use this code for transient or self-limiting sensory changes not requiring medical intervention.
• Distinguish between a true disturbance of sensation and a temporary blockage (e.g., nasal congestion from a cold) that resolves with treatment of the underlying cause.
• Consider sequencing this code after a more specific underlying cause if known and documented (e.g., head injury, neurological disorder, medication side effect).