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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Burnt Metallic Body Odour?

I am a 59 yr old male,5ft 10inches,194 lbs. My wife and I went out of town early yesterday am. When I arrived home later that afternoon, I began to smell something like copper or "burnt iron smell". the odor is also coming from the skin on my chest. I feel lethargic,but due to odor can't sleep...this has occurred twice before this occurrence. Any thoughts?
posted on Fri, 14 Mar 2014
Twitter Thu, 28 Jun 2018 Answered on
Twitter Fri, 29 Jun 2018 Last reviewed on
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Internal Medicine Specialist,  's  Response
Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.

We have something called apocrine glands, which develop in areas like the armpits and groin. They empty into the hair follicle just before it opens on the skin surface. When the bacteria on the skin start to break down this type of sweat, it can cause an unpleasant odor. Do bathing twice a day, regular exercise use antiperspirants and keep moisture free skin. If symptoms not improved please consult your dermatologist he will examine and treat you accordingly.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
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What Causes Burnt Metallic Body Odour?

Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice. We have something called apocrine glands, which develop in areas like the armpits and groin. They empty into the hair follicle just before it opens on the skin surface. When the bacteria on the skin start to break down this type of sweat, it can cause an unpleasant odor. Do bathing twice a day, regular exercise use antiperspirants and keep moisture free skin. If symptoms not improved please consult your dermatologist he will examine and treat you accordingly. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.