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Disease Profile

Misophonia

Prevalence
Prevalence estimates on Rare Medical Network websites are calculated based on data available from numerous sources, including US and European government statistics, the NIH, Orphanet, and published epidemiologic studies. Rare disease population data is recognized to be highly variable, and based on a wide variety of source data and methodologies, so the prevalence data on this site should be assumed to be estimated and cannot be considered to be absolutely correct.

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US Estimated

Europe Estimated

Age of onset

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ICD-10

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Inheritance

Autosomal dominant A pathogenic variant in only one gene copy in each cell is sufficient to cause an autosomal dominant disease.

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Autosomal recessive Pathogenic variants in both copies of each gene of the chromosome are needed to cause an autosomal recessive disease and observe the mutant phenotype.

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X-linked
dominant X-linked dominant inheritance, sometimes referred to as X-linked dominance, is a mode of genetic inheritance by which a dominant gene is carried on the X chromosome.

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X-linked
recessive Pathogenic variants in both copies of a gene on the X chromosome cause an X-linked recessive disorder.

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Mitochondrial or multigenic Mitochondrial genetic disorders can be caused by changes (mutations) in either the mitochondrial DNA or nuclear DNA that lead to dysfunction of the mitochondria and inadequate production of energy.

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Multigenic or multifactor Inheritance involving many factors, of which at least one is genetic but none is of overwhelming importance, as in the causation of a disease by multiple genetic and environmental factors.

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Not applicable

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Other names (AKA)

Selective sound sensitivity syndrome

Summary

Misophonia, translated to “hatred of sound,” is a chronic condition that causes intense emotional reactions to specific sounds. The most common triggers include those provoked by the mouth (chewing gum or food, popping lips), the nose (breathing, sniffing, and blowing) or the fingers (typing, clicking pen, drumming on the table). Reactions to the specific sound may be mild or strong and include anxiety, disgust, rage, hatred, panic, fear or a serious emotional distress with violence and suicidal thoughts. Symptoms usually start in childhood or in the early teenage years, and severity increases over time.[1]

The cause of misophonia is not yet known. Research has suggested it may relate to parts of the brain that are responsible for processing and regulating emotions.[2] Many people with misophonia have relatives with similar symptoms.[3]

Misophonia does affect daily life, but it may be managed by combining different therapies such as sound therapy with counseling, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure, and dialectical behavior therapy. Hearing plugs or aids, antidepressant medications, and an active lifestyle (to manage stress) may also be helpful.[1]

It is important to note that misophonia is not listed in any psychiatric classification systems. Some researchers believe misophonia should be considered a new mental disorder within the spectrum of obsessive-compulsive related disorders. Others think it is a feature of a broader syndrome of sensory intolerance, rather than a separate disorder.[4]

Organizations

Support and advocacy groups can help you connect with other patients and families, and they can provide valuable services. Many develop patient-centered information and are the driving force behind research for better treatments and possible cures. They can direct you to research, resources, and services. Many organizations also have experts who serve as medical advisors or provide lists of doctors/clinics. Visit the group’s website or contact them to learn about the services they offer. Inclusion on this list is not an endorsement by GARD.

Organizations Supporting this Disease

    Social Networking Websites

      References

      1. Kamody RC & Del Conte GS. Using Dialectical Behavior Therapy to Treat Misophonia in Adolescence. Prim Care Companion CNS Disord. September 14, 2017; 19(5):17l02105. https://www.psychiatrist.com/PCC/article/Pages/2017/v19n05/17l02105.aspx.
      2. Kumar S, Tansley-Hancock O, Sedley W, et al. The Brain Basis for Misophonia. Curr Biol. February 20, 2017; 20;27(4):527-533. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5321671/.
      3. Sanchez TG & Silva FED. Familial misophonia or Selective Sound Sensitivity Syndrome: evidence for autosomal dominant inheritance?. Braz J Otorhinolaryngol. July 29, 2017; 1808-8694(17):30114-3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28823694.
      4. Taylor S. Misophonia: A new mental disorder?. Med Hypotheses. June, 2017; 103:109-117. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28571795.