Next-Generation Olfactology in Rhinology and Otorhinolaryngology: From Nasal Airflow Dynamics to Neurocognitive Biomarkers

Olfaction is no longer viewed merely as an isolated sensory pathway, but as a critical physiological sentinel intersecting nasal aerodynamics, systemic immunology, and cognitive neurology. In Otorhinolaryngology, the clinical utility of olfactory evaluation has expanded exponentially over the last decade, catalyzed by the post-viral sequelae of the COVID-19 pandemic, advancements in endoscopic surgery, and the introduction of biologic therapies for chronic inflammatory diseases.This Research Topic aims to assemble state-of-the-art research that redefines olfactory science in rhinology. Importantly, we seek to transition from basic diagnostic profiling to deep, multi-dimensional clinical insights by integrating three main pillars of modern ENT research:• Aerodynamic-Olfactory Crossover: Establishing the complex link between physical nasal airflow dynamics, mucosal swelling patterns, and psychophysical olfactory scores using advanced tools like computational fluid dynamics (CFD).• Neurological & Aging Biomarkers: Leveraging standardized olfactory testing (e.g., Sniffin' Sticks) as an early, non-invasive biomarker for neurocognitive deterioration (such as cognitive decline and early dementia in aging populations) and evaluating the confounding impact of systemic polypharmacy.• Digital Health & Patient-led Rehabilitation: Evaluating mobile health apps, artificial intelligence, and virtual training suites to monitor, diagnose, and retrain olfactory dysfunction in a patient-centric, remotely-monitored setting.By assembling a leading European editorial panel featuring Dr. Giancarlo Ottaviano (University of Padua, Italy), Dr. Alfonso Luca Pendolino (University College London/ Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, UK), and Dr. Eleonora M.C. Trecca (University of Foggia, Italy), this collection will serve as a definitive guide for rhinologists, allergists, geriatricians, and neuroscientists. It provides a unique space to publish multi-dimensional, highly practical research on olfaction as an active driver of systemic patient wellness and diagnostic precision.The Research Topic welcomes original clinical research, comprehensive reviews, case-control studies, and technological evaluations covering:• Nasal Airflow Aerodynamics & Odorant Transport: The direct relationship between computational fluid dynamics (CFD), structural nasal septal/turbinate variations, and olfactory performance. Real-world recovery outcomes following nasal reconstructive surgery.• Post-Viral & Persistent Olfactory Dysfunction: Next-generation therapeutic interventions for persistent post-COVID-19 and other viral olfactory losses (e.g., olfactory training protocols, topical/systemic therapeutics, regenerative medicines, and nerve blocks).• Olfaction as a Geriatric and Cognitive Biomarker: Exploring the correlation between sensory decline, polypharmacy, and the early stages of neurocognitive diseases (Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s) in aging cohorts using standardized testing.• Digital Health, Tele-olfactometry & App-based Rehabilitation: Reviewing and validating the quality, efficacy, and clinical utility of smartphone applications, AI algorithms, and digital platforms in home-based olfactory training and remote diagnostic monitoring.• Biological Therapies and Type 2 Neuro-Inflammation: Mechanistic insights into how biological treatments (e.g., monoclonal antibodies) alter neuro-inflammatory pathways at the olfactory cleft, comparing subjective patient reports with objective psychophysical metrics. Topic editors: Eleonora M.C. Trecca, Alfonso Luca Pendolino, Giancarlo Ottaviano Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/85172/next-generation-olfactology-in-rhinology-and-otorhinolaryngology-from-nasal-airflow-dynamics-to-neurocognitive-biomarkers