Botulinum toxin improves the quality of life and reduces the intensification of depressive symptoms in patients with blepharospasm

Blepharospasm (BSP) is a focal dystonia that results in hyperactivity of orbicular muscles of eyes. These symptoms often result in decreased quality of life (QoL) and symptoms of depression. Botulinum toxin type A is the current first line therapy. The aim of the present study was to analyze the impact of botulinum toxin treatment on the QoL and depressive symptoms in patients with BSP. The QoL was evaluated by means of the Short Form 36 questionnaire. The degree of the intensity of depression was evaluated by means of the Montgomery-Äsberg Depression Rating Scale. Botulinum toxin treatment significantly improves the QoL and reduces the intensity of depressive symptoms in all our study patients with BSP.