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Sanchez and Silva 2017 on possible genetic influences in Misophonia

In a 2017 study, Sanchez and Silva investigated 15 members of a single family with misophonia to examine symptom patterns and explore a possible autosomal dominant inheritance. Symptoms began between ages 2–33, mostly in childhood or adolescence, and persisted for decades (mean duration = 30 years). Participants reported high annoyance (mean VAS = 7.3), with emotional reactions such as anger, irritability, and anxiety, and behavioral responses including avoidance, confrontation, and requests to stop the sound. Common triggers included chewing gum, nose blowing, and crinkling paper, with stronger reactions often directed at familiar individuals. None had sought treatment. The authors concluded that misophonia is a chronic, underrecognized condition likely beginning in youth and possibly following a hereditary pattern. They recommend future genetic research, including twin studies, to clarify its etiology. (Sanchez & Silva, 2017)