Olfactory function in systemic lupus erythematosus and systemic sclerosis. A longitudinal study and review of the literature.

Background/purpose: To evaluate olfactory function in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), systemic sclerosis (SSc) and healthy controls over a 2-year period, and to determine the association of olfactory dysfunction with age, disease activity, disease damage, treatment, anxiety and depression symptoms and limbic structures volumes.

Methods: Consecutive SLE and SSc patients were enrolled in this study. Clinical, laboratory disease activity and damage were assessed according to diseases specific guidelines.