Why does some people have body odor?

Bromhidrosis is a condition of abnormal or offensive body odour, to a large extent determined by apocrine gland secretion, although other sources may play a role. Sudoriferous (sweat) glands are divided into two types: apocrine and eccrine. Apocrine bromhidrosis Possibly associated with a positive family history Only occurs after puberty, as the apocrine glands are not active until puberty is reached More common in men than women, which may be a reflection of greater apocrine gland activity in men than in women Skin usually appears normal except when bromhidrosis is associated with concomitant skin condition such as erythrasma Corynebacterium species are the most common bacteria found in the armpit and have been shown to produce the offensively smelling fatty acids. Eccrine bromhidrosis Occurs in all races May be rarely caused by metabolic disorders, e.g. amino acid disturbances (trimethylaminuria [fish odour syndrome]), sweaty feet syndrome, odour of cat syndrome Possibly caused by ingestion of certain foods or medications Bromhidrosis caused by bacterial degradation of the skin protein keratin may be associated with maceration and a thick mat of moist keratin present on the skin The role of excessive eccrine secretion (hyperhidrosis) in causing bromhidrosis is unclear. It may promote the spread of apocrine sweat and cause further bacterial overgrowth and decomposition, or it may improve the symptoms of bromhidrosis by flushing away the more smelly apocrine sweat. The clinician's perception of smell is the only tool needed to diagnose bromhidrosis. Taking a medical history may reveal diseases or conditions that contribute to the occurrence of bromhidrosis e.g. obesity, diabetes mellitus, and intertrigo. The two main factors to consider when treating bromhidrosis are to: Keep the number of naturally occurring skin bacteria to a minimum Keep skin in the area, namely the armpit in apocrine bromhidrosis, as dry as possible Improved hygiene and topical therapy are the main treatment options for mild cases of bromhidrosis and may include the following. -Washing the underarm at least twice daily with germicidal soap -Regular shaving of underarm hair to prevent accumulation of bacteria and sweat on hair shafts -Prompt removal of sweaty clothing -Try anti-odour anti-microbial socks and other garments impregnated with silver or copper -Use of topical deodorants -Treatment of coexisting skin conditions such as intertrigo, erythrasma and trichomycosis axillaris

Consult a dermatologist