Intralesional botulinum toxin-A injection for the treatment of multiple eccrine hidrocystomas

ABSTRACT

Background: Multiple eccrine hidrocystomas (MEH) are benign cystic lesions of the sweat gland ducts. They are characterized by translucent, skin-colored or bluish dome-shaped papules on the face, causing cosmetic concern. Recently, botulinum toxin-A, because of its antiperspirant properties, has been used to treat facial MEH. However, there are only some case reports in the literature. Objective: Here, we conducted a prospective study to assess the efficacy and safety of intralesional injection of botulinum toxin-A (Dysport) for the treatment of MEH. Material and Methods: Twenty patients (3 men and 17 women), aged from 31 to 75 years old, participated in this study. A 300 unit vial of botulinum toxin-A (Dysport, Ipsenn Biopharm, United Kingdom) was diluted with 4 ml of saline solution without preservative to achieve a concentration of 7.5U/.1 ml. Up to 1.5 unit of botulinum toxin was injected intradermally at the base of each lesion to raise a visible wheal. The patients were evaluated 7 days later, and any clinical changes or adverse effects were recorded. Results: In all patients, more than 75% of eccrine hidrocystoma lesions resolved without any scaring. The result sustained for 2–5 months. In two patients mild smile asymmetry and in one patient lagophthalmos were noted approximately 5–7 days after injection that gradually resolved in 3 weeks. Conclusion: Intralesional botulinum toxin-A for treatment of multiple hidrocystomas is a simple and well-tolerated procedure. It is accompanied by excellent results, a good postoperative course, and no risk of scarring. It can be considered in patients who did not respond to other treatment or even as the first line therapy.

KEYWORDS:

• Botulinum toxin
• eccrine hidrocystoma

Acknowledgment

The authors would like to thank the Clinical Research Development Unit (CRDU) of Loghman Hakim Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran for their support, cooperation and assistance throughout the period of study.

Funding

The present study was founded by Skin Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences.