[Adrenaline sensitivity of senile ptosis]

In a case of bilateral "senile" ptosis topical application of epinephrine resulted in elevation of the eyelid by about 250-300% of basic lid-slit width. The short time elapsing until maximum effect was reached and the unchanged electromyographical findings (m. levator palpebrae) indicate that epinephrine influences Mueller's muscle directly. In 20 more patients with ptosis, who were examined, the effect of topically applied epinephrine on the eyelid could only be detected in cases of "senile" ptosis. This simple test may possibly be helpful in differential diagnosis.