BROMIDROSIS Meaning and
Definition
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Bromidrosis is a medical term that refers to a condition characterized by the presence of offensive or foul-smelling body odor. It is a result of the secretion and interaction of sweat with certain types of bacteria present on the skin. Specifically, bromidrosis is commonly associated with the apocrine glands, which are primarily located in the armpits, groin, and genital areas, as these glands produce a type of sweat that contains proteins and lipids that bacteria feed on and break down into malodorous substances.
The unpleasant odor associated with bromidrosis can vary in intensity and may be influenced by factors such as diet, hormonal changes, hygiene practices, and underlying medical conditions. Despite its name, bromidrosis is not directly caused by the element bromine, but rather by the breakdown products created by bacteria dwelling in the sweat glands.
To treat bromidrosis, maintaining proper hygiene is crucial, including regular bathing, using antibacterial soaps, and wearing fresh, breathable clothing. Antiperspirants or deodorants that contain aluminum chloride or antimicrobial agents can also be effective in reducing bacterial growth and minimizing odor. In severe cases, a dermatologist may recommend additional treatments, such as prescription-strength antiperspirants, oral medication, or even surgery to remove or deactivate the sweat glands responsible for the odor.
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Fetid or foul-smelling perspiration, bromhidrosis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for BROMIDROSIS
- bromidrosys
- bromidrosas
- bromidrosms
- bromidroshs
- bromidrosi3
- bromidrosic
- bromidrosiq
- bromidrosir
- b romidrosis
- br omidrosis
- bro midrosis
- brom idrosis
- bromi drosis
- bromid rosis
- bromidr osis
- bromidro sis
- bromidros is
- bromidrosi s
Etymology of BROMIDROSIS
The word "bromidrosis" is derived from two Latin roots: "bromium" and "osis".
1. "Bromium" refers to bromine, a chemical element known for its strong odor. Bromine was commonly used as an ingredient in medications, particularly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
2. "Osis" is a Greek suffix used to indicate a condition or state, often related to a disease or disorder.
Combining these roots, "bromidrosis" can be understood as a condition characterized by a strong or unpleasant odor related to the presence of bromine or similar compounds. In medical context, it specifically refers to the condition of having stinky or malodorous sweat.
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