Perhaps you, your child or teenager has suddenly developed a pungent breath or body odour which is unnaturally strong and recurs regularly, making it seem permanent. If so, this is not a hygiene issue and can be attributed to a systemic dysfunction involving an inefficient metabolism.
TMAU is a, largely unheard of, metabolic disorder with a potentially harmful treatment protocol which is used, with variable success, to alleviate the symptoms of foul odour this condition produces. TMAU is one of many systemic disorders (many are still unidentified) which can affect children and adults at any time. There is a link between TMAU and autism but this link has not been investigated fully yet. Autistic children, it seems, may be more prone to developing TMAU than other children.
Despite being a life-debilitating affliction which causes incredible psychological trauma for the sufferer and his/her family, TMAU (Trimethylaminuria) is not adequately researched and is highly under-diagnosed by GPs. However, diagnosis and greater awareness is necessary so that those afflicted can have access to the support networks established by other sufferers.
Odour disorders can result in the sufferer being bullied. Health education programmes should include TMAU and similar disorders so that children and adults become aware that such conditions exist and that they are not related to personal hygiene. Just as people with psoriasis or facial disfigurements should not be discriminated against, so it is with odour disorders. Disabilities and differences of all kinds should be accepted.
If you know of anyone who could be suffering from a bloodborne/systemic breath or body odour condition, they can find help and information at TMAU.org.uk, MEBO Research or breathandbodyodour.proboards.