Fetor

Fetor is a term used in medicine to describe an unpleasant or foul odor emanating from an individual. It is often used in the context of specific conditions that produce distinctive odors. For example, fetor hepaticus is a musty breath odor associated with severe liver disease, and fetor oris refers to foul-smelling breath.

Causes

Fetor can be caused by various factors, including poor hygiene, certain foods, tobacco and alcohol use, and certain medical conditions. Some of the medical conditions that can cause fetor include:

• Gastrointestinal disorders: Conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and peptic ulcers can cause bad breath.
• Respiratory tract infections: Infections in the lungs, sinuses or airways can also lead to bad breath.
• Metabolic disorders: Certain metabolic disorders can cause a specific type of bad breath. For example, a fruity odor can indicate uncontrolled diabetes, a fishy odor might indicate kidney failure, and a foul or fecal odor might indicate a bowel obstruction.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of fetor usually involves a physical examination and a review of the patient's medical history. The doctor may also order certain tests to determine the underlying cause of the fetor.

Treatment

The treatment of fetor depends on its underlying cause. For example, if the fetor is caused by poor oral hygiene, the treatment may involve improving oral hygiene practices. If the fetor is caused by a medical condition, treating that condition may help to reduce the fetor.

See also

• Halitosis
• Body odor
• Trimethylaminuria

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