Olfactory Reference Disorder: Diagnosis, Epidemiology and Management.

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Mental Health
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• Olfactory reference disorder (ORD) is a condition characterized by the erroneous belief of emitting foul body odor.
• It causes significant distress and impairment, often with repetitive camouflaging behaviors.
• While not in DSM-5, ORD is considered for ICD-11, indicating growing clinical recognition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide clinicians and researchers with comprehensive information on olfactory reference disorder.
• To cover the epidemiology, clinical presentation, and available treatment options for ORD.
• To highlight the underdiagnosed and undertreated nature of this condition.

Main Methods:

• A narrative literature review was conducted.
• Information was retrieved from computerized database searches.
• The review synthesizes existing knowledge on ORD.

Main Results:

• ORD involves the persistent, false belief of emitting unpleasant body odor.
• Symptoms include significant distress, functional impairment, and repetitive behaviors.
• Insight varies, with some cases exhibiting delusional intensity.

Conclusions:

• Olfactory reference disorder is likely underdiagnosed and undertreated.
• Screening is crucial as patients often do not spontaneously report symptoms.
• Limited research exists on effective treatment options for ORD.