Botulinum toxin therapy for palmar hyperhidrosis.
BACKGROUND
Severe palmar hyperhidrosis is a chronic disease, resistant to conventional therapy. Botulinum toxin inhibits sweat production by blocking release of acetylcholine from presynaptic membranes.


OBJECTIVE
Our purpose was to evaluate the short- and long-term effectiveness of botulinum toxin therapy in treatment of palmar hyperhidrosis.


METHODS
Four patients with severe palmar hyperhidrosis were treated with subepidermal injections of botulinum toxin. Fifty injections, 2 mouse units each, were used in each palm. Regional nerve blocks of the median and ulnar nerves were performed before the procedure. Patients were observed for 12 months after treatment.


RESULTS
Botulinum toxin injections significantly reduced sweat production in the treated areas of the palms. Anhidrosis lasted for 12 months in one patient, 7 months in two patients, and 4 months in one patient. Mild weakness of the thumb lasting 3 weeks occurred in one patient. No other side effects were observed.


CONCLUSIONS
Botulinum toxin provides an effective, safe, and long-lasting alternative therapeutic modality for treatment of severe palmar hyperhidrosis. Additional studies are needed for optimization of the technique.
Shelley
W B
WB
Division of Dermatology, Medical College of Ohio, Toledo 43699-0008, USA.
Talanin
N Y
NY
Shelley
E D
ED
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001905:Botulinum Toxins / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D005260:Female; D006225:Hand; D006801:Humans; D006945:Hyperhidrosis / Q000628:therapy*; D007279:Injections, Subcutaneous
D001905:Botulinum Toxins