Evaluation of<unk>  is difficult as it involves a complex interplay of the somatosensory system, the sense of smell, and the sense of pain.
At a minimum, evaluation should include a complete and thorough physical exam of the tongue and oropharynx
Workup should focus on ruling out secondary causes. Questions should be asked regarding oral health, salivation, prior and/or current upper respiratory infections (including COVID-19)
Consideration of ruling out potential secondary causes such as cancer, DM, hypothyroidism, or oropharyngeal causes
Typically a clinical diagnosis
Dysgeusia
Drugs, including chemotherapeutic agents
Dysphonia
Zinc deficiency
Ergotism
Oral infections
Priapism
Upper respiratory infections 