Uses of Botulinum Toxin a in Ophthalmology

Abstract

Introduction: Botox® (serotype A) is currently available and used to treat various ophthalmological conditions. The aim of our study was to review the current indications, side-effects and updates on the clinical use of botulinum toxin- A (Btx-A) in the field of ophthalmology. Methods: A literature search using the keywords “Botulinum Toxin”, “Botulinum Toxin A”, “Botox” and “Ophthalmology” was performed using Pubmed. Articles describing the use of botulinum toxin A were selected and reviewed. Results: The uses of Btx-A in ophthalmology can be broadly classified into four categories: eyelid, strabismus, cosmetic and others. In the eyelid, it can be used to treat blepharospasm, hemifacial spasm, apraxia of lid opening or induce ptosis in lid retraction and exposure keratopathy. In strabismus management, it can be injected into overacting muscles to realign the eyes. For cosmesis, it can be used to relax facial muscles to reduce wrinkles while other indications include treatment of chronic dry eye, lacrimal hypersecretion and pain relief in acute angle closure attack. Complications of the injection include local effects like ecchymosis, pain or infection and spillover effects like ptosis, diplopia, lagophthalmos, mid facial weakness and dry eyes. Conclusion: The clinical application of botulinum toxin A in ophthalmology is extensive. When considering its application in clinical practice, one should be mindful of the indications, risks and benefits of the procedure. When properly delivered, its potential as an efficacious, minimally-invasive treatment modality can be maximised in patient management.