Treatment of blepharospasm with botulinum toxin

In 43 patients (81 eyes) with blepharospasm resistant to other forms of therapy, 149 outpatient injections of botulinum A toxin were given into the orbicularis oculi muscle. Subsequent follow-up periods ranged from ten to 210 days. Orbicularis oculi spasm, eyelid forced closure, and eyebrow spasm all decreased substantially over the first ten days following the initial injection. Patients with essential blepharospasm, hemifacial spasm, or previous surgery all responded in a similar fashion. This beneficial effect was transient, however, and additional treatment was required for sustained relief. Twenty-five patients received multiple injections with a mean interval of 65 days. Results of second and third injections were similar to the first in rapidity of onset and duration of effect. Complications were local, mild, and transient, and no systemic side effects were noted.