[Treatment of blepharospasm and hemifacial spasm with botulinum A toxin].

112 patients with blepharospasm or hemifacial spasm were satisfactorily treated by local injections of small doses of botulinum A toxin, resulting in rapid relief or alleviation of the symptoms. No systemic adverse reactions were noted, and local side effects were minor and transient. The study shows that the therapy is safe and effective as a simple and easy alternative of surgical intervention.