Hyperhidrosis treated by botulinum A exotoxin.

BACKGROUND

Hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating, can be emotionally challenging and socially and professionally disruptive, and there have been few effective treatments. Recently, botulinum toxin has been demonstrated to be an effective treatment for hyperhidrosis of the axillae and palms and for gustatory sweating.

OBJECTIVE

This article reviews the current treatments and outcomes achieved with chemodenervation of the eccrine sweat glands.

RESULTS

The antihydrotic response lasted 6-17 months for gustatory sweating, 2-8 months for axillary sweating, and 13 weeks to 12 months for palmar sweating.

CONCLUSIONS

Intracutaneous injections of botulinum toxin offer a simple, safe, and effective alternative to other conservative and surgical options.