hyperosmia

There has not yet been extensive research into the genetic background of those with general hyperosmia, rather than for just a single odorant.

Hyperosmia - an abnormally acute sense of smell.

The causes of hyperosmia may be genetic, environmental or the result of benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome.

On this basis, it has been hypothesized that amphetamine use may cause hyperosmia in rodents and humans, but further research is still needed.

Hyperosmia is an increased olfactory acuity (heightened sense of smell), usually caused by a lower threshold for odor.

Grenouille is born with an extreme form of hyperosmia (an abnormally strong sense of smell), which eventually leads to him becoming a serial killer.

There has not been extensive research into environmental causes of hyperosmia, but there are some theories of some possible causes.

A related term, hyposmia, refers to a decreased ability to smell, while hyperosmia refers to an increased ability to smell.

It has also been observed that the inhalation of hydrocarbons can cause hyperosmia, most likely due to destruction of dopaminergic neurons in the olfactory bulb.

Methotrexate, administered in the treatment of psoriasis, has been known to cause hyperosmia, and is more likely to do so in patients with a history of migraines.

Before they had been discontinued due to undesirable side effects, butyrophenones or thioridazine hydrochloride, both of which are dopamine antagonists, have been used to treat hyperosmia.

Anecdotal support for the idea that amphetamines may cause hyperosmia comes from Oliver Sacks' account of a patient with a heightened sense of smell after taking amphetamines.