Is axillary osmidrosis the same as fox odor?

Jun 24, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I've never been popular since childhood; they say I have body odor. May I ask if axillary odor and fox odor are the same thing?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Wang Xiaoyan
There is no difference between axillary odor and bromhidrosis; they are simply different terms for the same condition. This condition primarily results from the interaction between sweat secreted by the apocrine glands in areas such as the armpits and bacteria on the skin, leading to the production of unsaturated fatty acids, which emit a distinctive odor. The smell is often described as similar to that of a fox, hence the name bromhidrosis or axillary odor. From a treatment perspective, there is also no significant difference between the two. Mild symptoms can be alleviated by maintaining good personal hygiene, using antibacterial deodorants, and wearing breathable clothing. For more severe cases, topical medications or surgical treatments may be required for a permanent cure.