Tag: Fish odor syndrome

Trimethylaminuria (TMAU), an uncommon metabolic disorder, causes a strong body odor described as smelling like rotten fish or garbage. Often referred to as 'the smelly person syndrome' in colloquial terms, this genetic condition results from the body's inability to properly break down a chemical compound called trimethylamine (TMA).

Trimethylaminuria (TMAU), often called 'fish odor syndrome,' is a metabolic disorder where the body cannot properly break down a foul-smelling chemical called trimethylamine. For those asking, "Is there a disease where you always smell bad?", this rare genetic condition provides a definitive and often life-altering answer.

While poor oral hygiene and certain foods are the most common culprits, persistent fishy-smelling breath in a child can sometimes be a sign of a more serious underlying health issue. Understanding the various causes is the first step toward finding a solution and putting a parent's mind at ease.