title: Botulinum toxin therapy of writer's cramp.
abstract: The pathophysiology and management of writer's cramp is one of the most challenging amongst the various forms of focal dystonias. Frequently, the dystonic postures are confounded by compensatory muscle activity. Correct identification of target muscles for botulinum toxin (BT) injections determines the treatment success. The dosages of different preparations vary, with 1 unit of Botox roughly equalling 3.5 units of Dysport. Electromyographic guided injections yield better results and may also decrease the amount of toxin required. Weakness of target muscles interfering with other non-writing activities is a frequently encountered adverse effect. Studies have shown that BT is a safe long-term therapy option.
authors.affiliation: Department of Neurology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chadigarh, India. dascp@glide.net.in
authors.forename: C P
authors.initials: CP
authors.lastname: Das
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Dressler
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Hallett
mesh_terms: D018726:Anti-Dyskinesia Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001905:Botulinum Toxins / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D020821:Dystonic Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic
chemical_list: D018726:Anti-Dyskinesia Agents; D001905:Botulinum Toxins