What term describes the loss of the ability to taste after cancer treatments?

The term that describes the loss of the ability to taste, particularly after cancer treatments, is dysgeusia. This condition affects the sense of taste, leading to altered taste perceptions or a complete loss of taste. It is a common side effect in patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, which can damage taste buds or the nerves responsible for taste sensation.

In the context of cancer treatments, patients may find that foods taste metallic, bland, or not at all. Understanding dysgeusia is crucial for healthcare providers as it significantly impacts the nutritional intake and quality of life of patients undergoing cancer therapy.

The other terms do not relate directly to the loss of taste: dysphagia refers to difficulties in swallowing, xerostomia denotes dry mouth commonly due to reduced saliva production, and mucositis indicates inflammation and ulceration of the mucous membranes in the mouth, which can lead to discomfort but is not specific to the sense of taste itself.