Treatment of hyperhidrosis with the use of Botox

Cosmetic surgery of the body and limbs

Botulinum toxin is an exotoxin produced by the anaerobic bacterium Clostridium botulinum. There are seven different types of this toxin, varying in their mechanisms of intracellular action although the terminal effect is the same. At present, botulinum toxin type A (Botox) is used for therapeutic purposes since it has the most long-lasting effect. Hyperhidrosis is an autonomous disorder characterized by excessive sweating in the armpits, palms, and/or soles of the feet. The application of Botox in the form of numerous intradermal injections into the affected regions blocks the secretion of the sweat glands, resulting in the absence of sweating in the treated areas. The effect is usually noticeable 1 to 3 days post treatment, although in some patients it may take a somewhat longer time (7 to 12 days). However, the effect is not permanent and in most cases gradually ceases after a period of 4 to 6 months.