The use of Botulinum Toxin for focal hyperhidrosis : life changing and not only cosmetic

Abstract

Focal hyperhidrosis is the excessive sweating from one part of the body most often the axillae, palms, soles and face. This condition is known to carry a high social and psychological burden with studies showing that patients with this condition end up avoiding leisure and social activities with sometimes even affects on their occupation. The aim of this literature review is to evaluate the different types of focal hyperhidrosis and how they can be treated. It seeks to compare Botulinum toxin treatment to other treatment options available for focal hyperhidrosis in terms of cost, efficacy and side effects. Research on Botulinum toxin and available serotypes are being done to help improve hyperhidrosis treatment by reducing side effects and improving efficacy. It also focuses on the effects of this condition on the patient’s lifestyle and how debilitating this condition can be. This kind of treatment is sometimes regarded as a cosmetic procedure since medical professionals consider hyperhidrosis as benign. However, research has shown that effective treatment of hyperhidrosis with botulinum toxin improves patient’s quality of life (QoL) significantly.