Differential Diagnosis of Osmophobia (Olfactophobia)

General features:

(1) The patient has a fear or aversion of one or more odors.

(2) The odor may be specific, limited to a certain group, or to many types of smells.

(3) An exposure may result in nausea and/or vomiting.

(4) The patient may take a number of steps to avoid encountering a triggering smell.

Differential diagnosis:

(1) osmophobia associated with migraine (common and associated with light or sound sensitivity) or tension-type headaches (less common)

(2) post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

(3) fragrance sensitivity

(4) mageirocophobia (fear associated with cooking)

(5) pregnancy

(6) smell aversion following chemotherapy