The Nutritional Impact of Metallic Taste in Head and Neck Cancer Patients: Explorations and Clinical Implications

Abstract

PURPOSE: Metallic taste (MT) is frequently observed during head and neck cancer treatments, but very little is known about its impact on nutritional status. The aim of this study was to explore the impact of MT on the quality of life and nutritional status in patients with head and neck cancer expressing MT disorder. METHODS: Questionnaires on quality of life, MT, weight, and food intake were filled out by 44 patients with head and neck cancer before, during, and up to one year after their treatment. Patients were divided into two groups based on the occurrence of MT. RESULTS: MT was commonly observed (27.2%), always during the treatment phase and mostly linked with radiotherapy or radiochemotherapy. MT intensity was moderate (40%) to high (26.7%). MT had a significant negative impact on QoL linked to dysgeusia (p=0.025). The negative impacts of MT on food intake and on weight were not significant, possibly due to a combination of sample size, dropouts, and duration of observation. Further research in this area could provide additional insights into how to better address the issue related to MT and enhance the quality of care provided to this patient population. CONCLUSION: Metallic taste, experienced by 27.2% of head and neck patients, contributes to dysgeusia and results in a significant decline in quality of life. ClinicalTrials.gov trial registration number: NCT03558789