What condition is referred to as anhidrosis?

Anhidrosis is a condition characterized by a deficiency in perspiration, meaning that the body does not produce enough sweat. This can disrupt the body's ability to regulate temperature effectively, potentially leading to overheating. People with anhidrosis may have a reduced capacity to cool themselves down through sweating, which is crucial for maintaining a stable body temperature, especially in hot environments or during physical activity.

In contrast, the other conditions described do not align with anhidrosis. Excessive sweating, or hyperhidrosis, refers to the opposite scenario where the body produces too much sweat. Foul-smelling perspiration typically indicates issues with sweat gland function or hygiene, while a prickly heat condition, also known as heat rash, occurs due to blockage of sweat glands rather than a deficiency in sweating. Understanding these definitions allows for better comprehension of how anhidrosis impacts the body's physiological responses and overall health.