What condition results from damage to cranial nerve I (olfactory nerve)?

Anosmia refers to the loss or impairment of the sense of smell, which directly results from damage to the olfactory nerve (cranial nerve I). This nerve is responsible for the transmission of olfactory information from the nasal cavity to the brain, facilitating the perception of odors. When the olfactory nerve is compromised, individuals may lose their ability to detect smells, which can significantly affect taste and overall quality of life. This condition is often assessed in clinical settings through specific smell tests, confirming the link between olfactory nerve function and the sensation of smell.

The other conditions listed are not associated with damage to the olfactory nerve. Monocular blindness is related to issues with the optic nerve (cranial nerve II). Gag reflex impairment typically involves the glossopharyngeal (cranial nerve IX) and vagus nerves (cranial nerve X), while loss of facial sensation is associated with the trigeminal nerve (cranial nerve V). Thus, anosmia is the only condition specifically linked to olfactory nerve damage.