Body odor, Could There Be an Underlying Disease?

Dear Ask The Doctor: Okay I dont have bad breath , but the last few days noticed having a slight body odor, I'm 63 I have not been doing any thing to cause sweating, so it is worrying me a bit ,could having BO be an underlying medical condition ? other than the usial reasons for BO ?

Dear Elmer: In certain cases body odor may be a sign of underlying disease. Diabetic ketoacidosis, kidney failure, lung disease, hyperthyroidism and drugs like thallium and sulphur containing drugs can cause body odor. If your body odor is not controlled by using anti-perspirants, deodorants and proper hygiene, I would suggest you consult you doctor in this regard.