The Journal of Korean Medicine Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology and Dermatology (한방안이비인후피부과학회지)

The Society of Korean Medicine Ophthalmology, Otolaryngology & Dermatology (대한한방안이비인후피부과학회)
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A Case Study of Herbal Medicine Treatment for Suspected Trimethylaminuria during Weight Loss

체중 감량 중 발생한 트리메틸아민뇨증이 의심되는 경우의 한약 치료 사례 연구

  • Received : 2024.10.04
  • Accepted : 2024.10.31
  • Published : 2024.11.25
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Abstract

Objectives : The study aims to report a suspected case of trimethylaminuria (TMAU) that developed during a herbal medicine-based diet for obesity treatment. Trimethylaminuria, characterized by a fishy body odor, can lead to significant social and psychological distress. The objective is to explore whether the prescribed Korean herbal medicine treatment could alleviate TMAU symptoms, providing insight into a potential integrative approach for managing this metabolic disorder. Methods : A 27-year-old woman who experienced significant body odor changes during a weight loss treatment with herbal medicine was observed retrospectively. The treatment initially focused on weight loss, but was modified to address the odor symptoms. Various herbal formulations were prescribed, and changes in body odor intensity were monitored using the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) and Classification of Odor Intensity (COI) by medical staff. Results : After modifying the herbal treatment, the patient's symptoms of body odor, initially at NRS 8.5 and COI 4, gradually improved over several months. By the end of the treatment, both NRS and COI had reached 0, indicating a complete resolution of odor symptoms. Conclusions : This case suggests that herbal medicine could be an effective treatment for alleviating the symptoms of TMAU. Further research is needed to determine the precise role of herbal formulations in managing metabolic disorders like TMAU, as this study highlights the potential benefits of integrative Korean medicine in managing complex metabolic conditions.

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References

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