[Botulinum toxin: structure, mode of action and therapeutic use]

Structure, biological activity, mode and mechanism of action of botulinum toxin as well as its therapeutic use is described. Botulinum toxin type A, one of the most potent biologic toxins, has been found to be of therapeutic value in the treatment of several neurologic and ophthalmologic diseases. Its ability to produce chemical denervation of muscles makes it option for treatment of disorders in which traditional therapeutic procedures are of limited value (e.g. blepharospasm and other focal dystonias, strabismus, spasticity).