Hyperosmia
Hyperosmia is an increased
Causes
Genetics
A study by Menashe et al. has found that individuals with a single nucleotide polymorphism variant in the OR11H7P pseudogene have a lower receptor activation threshold for
Another study by Keller et al. has found that people with the intact human odorant receptor OR7D4 are more sensitive to androstenone and androstadienone and thus find them unpleasant (individuals with the semi-functional OR7D4 have two non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms in the OR7D4 pseudogene, resulting in two amino acid substitutions).[3] There has not yet been extensive research into the genetic background of those with general hyperosmia, rather than for just a single odorant.
Environmental
There has not been extensive research into environmental causes of hyperosmia, but there are some theories of some possible causes.
In a study by Atianjoh et al., it has been found that
It has been observed that the inhalation of hydrocarbons can cause hyperosmia, most likely due to the destruction of dopaminergic neurons in the olfactory bulb.[6]
Methotrexate, administered in the treatment of psoriasis, has been known to cause hyperosmia, and may be more likely to do so in patients with a history of migraines.[7] However, this is only an observation and not part of a study; therefore, it is yet to be verified.
Treatment
If the cause(s) is/are environmental, normal olfactory acuity will usually return over time, even if it is left undiagnosed or untreated.
See also
- Phantosmia
- Hyposmia
- Multiple chemical sensitivity, a condition that some believe is caused by a very acute sense of smell
- Olfaction
- Oliver Sacks
- Benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome
- Parosmia