Transcutaneous dysport injection for treatment of upper eyelid retraction associated with thyroid eye disease

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of transcutaneous injections of botulinum toxin type A (Dysport) in the treatment of upper lid retraction associated with thyroid eye disease (TED).

A total of 25 eyes of 16 patients including 11 female and 5 male subjects with stable TED condition were enrolled into the study. Mean age was 35.7 years (21-55). A transcutaneous injection of 20U Dysport was administered into each eyelid at the central superior tarsal border, aiming at the levator aponeurosis and Muller muscle. All patients were followed regularly for 4 to 6 months. Any complications, such as ptosis, diplopia, pain, or lid ecchymosis were recorded.

All patients experienced considerable reduction of palpebral fissure height. The mean lowering of the lid was 4.24 mm standard deviation (SD) =2.005, 2 weeks after intervention, and the effect remained for a minimum period of 4 months. There were temporary complications such as ptosis, which occurred in 4 patients for 4 weeks.

A single transcutaneous injection of Dysport is safe and effective for treatment of lid retraction due to TED. Minor complications such as ptosis and diplopia may occur, however, this modality may offer temporary relief for patients with dysthyroid lid retraction awaiting orbital decompression or strabismus surgery or both.