Prospective evaluation of the efficacy of dermal botulinium toxin for primary axillary hyperhidrosis.
BACKGROUND
Primary axillary hyperhidrosis (PAH) is an embarassing, socially disabling condition, most commonly seen in young people. Previous treatments for this condition have included sympathectomy or axillary skin excision. Recently botulinum toxin has been used to provide effective, non-invasive treatment for this condition.


OBJECTIVE
To investigate the effect of botulinum toxin injection in patients with PAH on sweat production and psychological wellbeing.


METHODS
Ten patients were assessed before treatment with botulinum toxin injection using gravimetric analysis and a psychometric questionnaire. Patients were reassessed at intervals of one, four and twelve weeks following treatment.


RESULTS
Injection with botulinum toxin resulted in significant improvement in patients physical symptoms and psychological wellbeing. However, improvement was short-lived with recurrence of symptoms at three months.


CONCLUSIONS
Botulinum toxin injection provides very effective short-term relief of PAH. While its limitations should be recognised and explained when consenting patients for treatment, this does not necessarily diminish its value in the treatment of PAH.
Hanlon
L
L
Dept of Vascular Surgery, St Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland.
Cahill
R
R
Barry
M C
MC
D001365:Axilla; D019274:Botulinum Toxins, Type A / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006945:Hyperhidrosis / Q000188:drug therapy*; D007271:Injections, Intradermal; D008297:Male; D009465:Neuromuscular Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D011446:Prospective Studies; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D009465:Neuromuscular Agents; D019274:Botulinum Toxins, Type A