SUMMARYObjective: This study evaluated the role of patients' associated oral and extra-oral factors, as well as previous dental treatment, as possible predisposing (triggering) factors in the development delusional halitosis. Method: Forty-six patients diagnosed of delusional halitosis, over a consecutive period of 2 years (2003)(2004) were selected for this study. Diagnosis was based on: use of standard halitosis questionnaire (to confirm the presence of psychological component) modified to obtain data on oral and extra-oral factors, as well as previous dental treatment linked by patients as cause of oral malodour; clinical assessment without objective evidence of oral malodour; absence of reliable third party to confirm patients' claim of oral malodour; and screening with sulphur monitor (RH-17 Series Halimeter, Interscan, Chatsworth, CA) that was within normal range (80-140ppb). Results: All the 46 patients studied had normal halimeter measurement and no reliable third party to confirm the patients' claim of oral malodour. Twenty-four (52.2%) patients had associated possible predisposing factors. The most common associated factors were bitter taste (25.0%), oral deposits (20.8%), carious tooth (16.7%) and previous tooth extraction (16.7%). Associated factors were divided into oral, extra-oral and dental treatment. Patients' associated oral factors were significantly correlated as predisposing factors for delusional halitosis (p<0.01) Conclusion: This study shows significant correlation of patients' associated oral factors as the triggering event, which could predispose those individuals who may have underlying psychosomatic tendencies to developing delusional halitosis.
(5) patients with age range of 18-30 years and a mean age of 24 years (SD = 4.47) were included in the study. These individuals manifested multiple symptoms associated with distress and they experienced personal discomfort and social embarrassment leading to emotional distress. The study highlights the importance of assessing personality characteristics and psychological dysfunction of patients presenting with delusional halitosis. A multidisciplinary approach in the treatment of delusional halitosis cannot, therefore be overemphasized.
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