Bromhidrosis

Bromhidrosis is a condition where the body emits abnormal or offensive body odor. It is also known as bromidrosis and body odor. In rare cases, bromhidrosis may become particularly overpowering and can even affect an individual's 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.

The strong odor of Bromhidrosis is caused by the bacterial decomposition of apocrine secretion—which creates ammonia and short-chain fatty acids. This odor has been described as being 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, such as garlic, spices, alcohol or certain drugs, may lead to an offensive odor being emitted. It is also possible for this form of bromhidrosis to be caused by an underlying disease or metabolic disorder.

Apocrine Bromhidrosis Most 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 elderly. 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 Most Common in Children

Eccrine bromhidrosis 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.