Difference in outcome of botulinum toxin treatment of essential palatal tremor in children and adults

PurposeThe objective of this clinical study was to investigate the history and clinical findings in 10 patients having an essential palatal tremor. Furthermore, a botulinum toxin A (BTA) therapy in 5 cases was carried out, and the outcome was analyzed.Materials and MethodsSeven adult and 3 pediatric patients with essential palatal tremor were examined at presentation, before and after start of treatment, and every 3 months or when symptoms recurred. Findings were documented by endoscopic video recordings, electromyography, tympanometry, and ear canal microphone recording. The BTA injections were performed in local or general anesthesia, under elecromyographic guidance.ResultsThe BTA therapy in all 5 patients was successful. Surprisingly, 2 of these patients, aged 10 and 6 years, remained in remission for several years after a single successful injection.ConclusionBotulinum toxin therapy is a safe and effective treatment of essential palatal tremor and seems to be especially useful in pediatric patients. The long lasting effect in children hints toward a pathophysiologic difference between pediatric and adult essential palatal tremor.