Compared Evaluation of Botulinum Toxin A and a Cosmetic Antiperspirant in the Treatment of Focal Axillary Hyperhidrosis

Abstract

Background: Primary focal hyperhidrosis can significantly reduce quality of life. Therefore a lot of treatment options in a range of conservative, physical and surgical techniques are available. Objective: To assess the efficacy of an antiperspirant containing aluminum chloride compared to a Botulinumtoxin A treatment for patients with primary focal hyperhidrosis. Methods and material: In this randomized, single-center, half-side trail, a clinical score was done by patients and physician to evaluate the severity of hyperhidrosis. Gravimetric tests were performed to gather the amount of sweat per unit of time. Furthermore the efficacy was determined using a four point questionnaire. Skin irritation was assessed by measuring pH value and transepidermal water loss. Results: A total of 22 patients were enrolled. Two weeks after baseline the hyperhidrosis level was significantly reduced (BTX-A: ﹣92.9%, AL: 66.7%). In addition both treatment options induced a significant reduction of sweat production (BTX-A: ﹣80.8%, AL: 68.8%). Please change in: Patients evaluated good resp, very good efficacy for both treatment options at day 28. pH value and TEWL never left physiological range. Conclusion: Both botulinum toxin A treatment and an antiperspirant containing aluminum chloride in the evaluated galenic formulation are an effective and safe treatment option for axillary focal hyperhidrosis.