Insights on Olfactory Reference Syndrome

Olfactory reference syndrome (ORS) may be more common than generally recognized, according to Dr. Katharine Phillips—a leading expert on this disorder. Those with ORS believe they emit an offensive body odor that is not perceived by others—and they spend many hours a day preoccupied with negative thoughts about their perceived odor. They are at are at high risk for depression, social isolation, and suicide. Here, Dr. Phillips briefly discusses this intriguing disorder.