Chronic Bromhidrosis

What is it?

Bromhidrosis is a condition that refers to bad odor sweating which causes foul-smelling body odor. Sweating odor is caused due to the encounter of bacteria on the skin and the sweat, which does not have any smell to begin with. Bromhidrosis may be caused due to bacteria on the skin or certain foods, alcohol or medications. Diagnosis is based upon findings from medical history and physical examination. Further evaluation may include blood tests for sugar levels, kidney and liver function as diabetes, renal and liver conditions may contribute to abnormally strong body odor. Treatment depends on the severity of the symptom and may include botox, liposuction to remove the sweat glands, and a surgical procedure called endoscopic sympathectomy which destroys the nerves that innervate sweat glands.