Bromhidrosis (Bodily Odor)

Bromhidrosis (osmidrosis/body odor) is foul-smelling sweat from apocrine glands in axilla/groin/feet, due to bacterial decomposition of sweat/sebum. Treatment: daily hygiene; antibacterial soaps; antiperspirants (aluminum chloride); deodorants; topical antibiotics (clindamycin/erythromycin); shaving axillary/pubic hair; absorbent clothing; oral antibiotics for severe; botulinum toxin injection (reduces sweating); surgery (apocrine gland excision/sympathectomy) for severe refractory; follow-up dermatology; distinguish from hyperhidrosis/trimethylaminuria (fish odor syndrome).

Common Symptoms

Foul body odor; axilla/groin/feet; by bacterial decomposition

Causes and Pathogenesis

Bacterial breakdown of apocrine sweat/sebum produces foul odor.

Treatment

Hygiene; antiperspirants/deodorants; topical antibiotics; botulinum toxin; surgery

Preventive Measures

Daily hygiene; clean clothing; antibacterial soap.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Dermatology/Surgery department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.