Though the vast majority of cases of anosmia are the result of another condition, there are rare cases of a person being born with a lifelong inability to smell or congenital anosmia. Some people with congenital anosmia experience no other symptoms — so-called isolated congenital anosmia — and others are associated with certain genetic disorders. Physicians remain unable to determine the cause of isolated congenital anosmia. Additionally, it appears as though the condition is sporadic and familial cases are uncommon. Many children with congenital anosmia pretend to be able to smell, making it difficult for parents to seek treatment.

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