BACKGROUND: Hyperhidrosis is characterized by excessive sweating of the forehead, hands, feet, and armpits, either alone or in combination. It affects about 1% of the population. This study aimed to observe the effects of botulinum toxin in patients with hyperhidrosis and demonstrates the application technique of botulinum toxin, the areas of incidence of the disease, and the duration of the results. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of 39 patients with primary hyperhidrosis treated between July 2000 and July 2010 and followed up for 12 months was carried out. Of these patients, 36% were male and 64% were female. Patient ages ranged from 16 to 41 years. A total of 135 areas were treated. Treatment consisted of intradermal injections of botulinum toxin. The total dose applied ranged from 37.5 U to 150 U, with an average dose of 75 U for each treated area. RESULTS: The therapeutic effect of botulinum toxin was observed from the third day after treatment, with a 50% reduction in symptoms within the first week of treatment and up to 94% reduction in the number of hyperhidrosis events after the second week. The reduction of symptoms lasted, on average, for 7 months. No cases of compensatory hyperhidrosis or mortality were observed. CONCLUSIONS: The treatment of primary hyperhidrosis with type A botulinum toxin, although temporary, is an effective, safe, and minimally invasive treatment option. It has a high degree of satisfaction and allows patients to return to their professional activities on the same day. Side effects and complications are temporary, infrequent, and regress without sequelae.
Botulinum toxins; Hyperhidrosis; Sweating
