Why do people who previously had no body odor suddenly develop bromhidrosis?
Disease description:
I never had any body odor before—absolutely none—but suddenly, I noticed an unusually strong and unpleasant smell. After visiting the hospital for an examination, I was diagnosed with bromhidrosis (commonly known as “fox odor”). I’d like to understand: if I never had bromhidrosis before, why did it appear so suddenly?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Wan
Individuals who previously did not have axillary osmidrosis (bromhidrosis) may suddenly develop it due to factors such as young age and incomplete development of the apocrine sweat glands. However, as one ages, increased secretion of androgens stimulates the maturation and proliferation of numerous apocrine glands, leading to the production of a distinctive odor—resulting in axillary osmidrosis. Sudden onset may also stem from poor hygiene practices—for instance, infrequent bathing, failure to change clothing regularly, or wearing non-breathable garments—especially when combined with excessive sweating. These conditions foster bacterial overgrowth on the skin, ultimately causing axillary osmidrosis.
