Hyperhidrosis and Its Treatment: A Safe and Effective Alternative in the Treatment of Palmoplantar Hyperhidrosis, Iontophoresis

Abstract

Primary hyperhidrosis is characterized by excessive sweating of unknown cause which most commonly involves the palms, soles, and axillae in a bilateral and symmetrical fashion. Since it leads to physical discomfort and psychosocial difficulties in the affected individuals, it should be treated effectively. However, treatment can be challenging as its pathophysiology is poorly understood. There are several treatment options, including topical or systemic medications and surgical or non-surgical invasive techniques. Iontophoresis is the introduction of ionized substances into the surface tissues by means of an electric current. It is a non-invasive, safe, well tolerated, and effective treatment method for primary hyperhidrosis without long-term adverse effects and compensatory hyperhidrosis. Iontophoresis is suggested as a first-line therapy in severe palmoplantar hyperhidrosis and second-line therapy in milder cases that are unresponsive to topical treatments. In axillary hyperhidrosis it is less effective and not practical to use. Being time consuming and requiring maintenance therapy are its most important disadvantages. In this article, hyperhidrosis and the principal treatment options, the indications of iontophoresis for the treatment of primary hyperhidrosis, its mechanism of action, treatment protocol and procedure, adverse effects, and contraindications are reviewed. (Turk J Dermatol 2011; 5: 5-12)