Bromhidrosis

Bromhidrosis is a condition where the body emits abnormal or offensive body odor. It is also known as bromidrosis or body odor. In rare cases the bromidrosis may become particularly overpowering and affect an individuals life.

The human body has two types of secretory glands – apocrine and eccrine. It is the apocrine glands that most commonly cause bromhidrosis. The distribution of apocrine glands is limited to the axilla, genital skin and breasts.

Bacterial decomposition of apocrine secretion creates ammonia and short chain fatty acids, which have a strong odor. The odor has been described as pungent, rancid, musty or sour in character.

The eccrine glands are distributed over the entire body and their secretions are usually odorless. However the ingestion of certain substances like garlic, spices, alcohol or certain drugs may lead to an offensive odor being omitted. It is also possible for this form of bromhidrosis to be caused by an underlying disease or metabollic disorder.

Apocrine bromhidrosis more common in post puberty males

Apocrine bromhidrosis is most common in males probably due to the apocrine glands being more active in males. It also only occurs after puberty and is rare in the eldeerly. The condition is also more prevalent in dark-skinned people.

Diagnosis of Bromhidrosis is most common in Asian countries. This does not necessarily indicate that the condition itself is more common in these countries but rather that medical treatment is more often sought. In most Asian cultures any body odor is associated with personal distress.

Eccrine bromhidrosis more common in children

Eccrine bromhidrosis on the other hand occurs in all races and is most common in children. Examination of the skin’s surface in both forms of the condition will usually show no signs of abnormality.

Bromhidrosis can be treated conservatively by undertaking methods to reduce bacterial flora and maintaining a dry environment. Improving hygiene and washing susceptible areas with an antiseptic soap will help. Using a topical deodorant, shaving the affected areas and removing sweaty clothing promptly will also help to limit the odor.