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Updated: Jun 29, 2026

Ultrasound-guided Botulinum Toxin-A Injections: A Method of Treating Sialorrhea
Published on: November 9, 2016
Undesirable distant effects following botulinum toxin type a injection.
Nicolas Roche1, Alexis Schnitzler, François Genêt F
1Service de Physiologie d'Explorations Fonctionnelles, Faculty of Medicine Paris Ile-de-France Ouest, University of Versailles-Saint Quentin, Garches, France. roche.nicolas@rpc.aphp.fr
Clinical signs of botulinum toxin type A (BoNTA) spread from injection sites are rare but can be diagnosed using clinical, temporal, and electromyographic factors. Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms of BoNTA spread.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pharmacology
- Clinical Electrophysiology
Background:
- Botulinum toxin type A (BoNTA) is widely used for treating spasticity.
- Understanding the potential spread of BoNTA from the injection site is crucial for patient safety and treatment efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of clinical signs associated with BoNTA spread.
- To investigate the diagnostic methods for identifying BoNTA spread.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective cohort study of patients receiving BoNTA for spasticity.
- Systematic assessment for adverse effects indicative of BoNTA spread.
- Clinical examination, single-fiber electromyography, and neuromuscular biopsy for suspected cases.
Main Results:
- Five out of 266 BoNTA injection sessions (187 patients) showed clinical signs of toxin spread.
- Single-fiber electromyography revealed increased jitter in four patients.
- Neuromuscular biopsy indicated recent denervation without reinnervation.
Conclusions:
- Diagnosis of BoNTA spread relies on clinical, temporal, and electromyographic findings.
- The clinical presentation of BoNTA spread is variable, and underlying mechanisms require further investigation.
- Prospective, randomized trials are necessary to elucidate BoNTA spread mechanisms and optimize treatment.
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