Trimethylaminuria is a disorder in which the body is unable to break down trimethylamine, a chemical compound that has a pungent odor. Trimethylamine has been described as smelling like rotten or decaying fish. As this compound builds up in the body, it causes affected people to give off a strong fishy odor in their sweat, urine, and breath. The intensity of the odor may vary over time. The odor can interfere with many aspects of daily life, affecting a person’s relationships, social life, and career. Some people with trimethylaminuria experience depression and social isolation as a result of this condition.
Inheritance Pattern
Autosomal dominant
Other Names
Fish malodor syndrome; Fish odor syndrome; Stale fish syndrome; TMAU; TMAuria
Related Genetics Topics
- FMO3 — MedlinePlus Genetics
Identifiers
- GTR: C0342739
- ICD-10-CM: E72.52
- MeSH: D008661
- OMIM: 602079
- SNOMED CT: 237959005
Source: MedlinePlus Genetics, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
