Summary of: Halitosis: a new definition and classification

Key Points

• Suggests previous halitosis classification systems omit some aetiologies, and their diagnoses hinged on single occasion halitometric and organoleptic findings, which are unreliable.

• Proposes halitosis diagnosis should focus more on the declarations of the patient and his/her social environment.

• Suggests the new classification completely covers all possible aetiologies of halitosis.

Abstract

Background There is no universally accepted, precise definition, nor standardisation in terminology and classification of halitosis.

Objective To propose a new definition, free from subjective descriptions (faecal, fish odour, etc), one-time sulphide detector readings and organoleptic estimation of odour levels, and excludes temporary exogenous odours (for example, from dietary sources). Some terms previously used in the literature are revised.

Results A new aetiologic classification is proposed, dividing pathologic halitosis into Type 1 (oral), Type 2 (airway), Type 3 (gastroesophageal), Type 4 (blood-borne) and Type 5 (subjective). In reality, any halitosis complaint is potentially the sum of these types in any combination, superimposed on the Type 0 (physiologic odour) present in health.

Conclusion This system allows for multiple diagnoses in the same patient, reflecting the multifactorial nature of the complaint. It represents the most accurate model to understand halitosis and forms an efficient and logical basis for clinical management of the complaint.

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