Botulinum toxin for palliative treatment of epiphora in a patient with canalicular obstruction.
OBJECTIVE
To describe the use of botulinum toxin injection of the lacrimal gland for palliative treatment of epiphora secondary to canalicular obstruction from docetaxel therapy.


METHODS
Case report.


METHODS
A 50-year-old female with bilateral canalicular obstruction secondary to docetaxel therapy received botulinum toxin injections (5 units each) into the lacrimal glands of both eyes.


RESULTS
Symptomatic epiphora of the affected eyes was reduced after 2 weeks. No side effects were observed.


CONCLUSIONS
Botulinum toxin injection of the lacrimal gland is an effective palliative treatment for epiphora secondary to canalicular obstruction from docetaxel therapy.
Tu
Alexander H
AH
Department of Ophthalmic Plastic, Orbital and Reconstructive Surgery, Doheny Eye Institute, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90033, USA.
Chang
Eli L
EL
D000972:Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic / Q000009:adverse effects; D019274:Botulinum Toxins, Type A / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy; D000077143:Docetaxel; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007267:Injections; D007765:Lacrimal Apparatus / Q000187:drug effects*; D007766:Lacrimal Apparatus Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000188:drug therapy*; D007767:Lacrimal Duct Obstruction / Q000139:chemically induced*; D008875:Middle Aged; D009465:Neuromuscular Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D010166:Palliative Care; D043823:Taxoids / Q000009:adverse effects
D000972:Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic; D009465:Neuromuscular Agents; D043823:Taxoids; D000077143:Docetaxel; D019274:Botulinum Toxins, Type A