BOTULINUM TOXIN-A IN DERMATOLOGY

Based on its unique botulinum toxin is referred to as the most poisono us poison. Its specific inhibition of the acetyl-cholin-dependent neur omuscular transmission is used by ophthalmologists and neurologists fo r the relaxation of spastic or dystonic muscles, preferrably in muscle groups in the head and neck area. Analogously, it is being used by de rmatologists to remove facial wrinkles by paralyzing mimic muscles whi ch account for mechanically induced wrinkling. Apart from this purely cosmetic use, botulinum toxin has gained recent attention in dermatolo gy as a potent treatment modality for circumscribed hyperhidrosis.