Quality of life in patients with blepharospasm.
OBJECTIVE
Administration of botulinum neurotoxin A (BONT/A) is a common and effective treatment of blepharospasm. There is, however, no information regarding the emotional and social well-being of patients with blepharospasm and patient acceptance of BONT/A therapy. The purpose of this study was to investigate aspects of quality of life of patients with blepharospasm and level of patient satisfaction with treatment.


METHODS
Fifty-one patients with blepharospasm who had been treated with BONT/A for years completed a questionnaire providing information about quality of life.


RESULTS
Results revealed reductions in social and emotional well-being of patients but, nonetheless, good acceptance of BONT/A therapy. The positive effects of BONT/A therapy were, however, accompanied by fear of a decreasing effect of BONT/A injections.


CONCLUSIONS
Although the objective findings following BONT/A injections in the treatment of blepharospasm are appreciated by the patients, their well-being is affected by fears and depression.
Tucha
O
O
Department of Neuropsychology, University of Regensburg, Germany.
Naumann
M
M
Berg
D
D
Alders
G L
GL
Lange
K W
KW
D000368:Aged; D001764:Blepharospasm / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000523:psychology*; D019274:Botulinum Toxins, Type A / Q000008:administration & dosage; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007273:Injections, Intramuscular; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care / Q000523:psychology; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D011788:Quality of Life; D012803:Sick Role; D012917:Social Adjustment
D019274:Botulinum Toxins, Type A