Botulinum in selected neurological disorders - review

Abstract

Introduction and objective Botulinum toxin (BoNT) has been used in medicine for many years. BoNT, prevents acetylcholine from being released into synapses, causing flaccid muscles paralysis. The article reviews the current knowledge of botulinum toxin application in the treatment of neurological diseases, focusing on therapeutic efficacy and side-effects. The aim of the review is to analyze the largest possible number of neurological conditions in which the application of botulinum toxin was considered. Materials and method A literature review of the last 10 years was conducted using the key words: ‘botulinum toxin neurology’ in the PubMed database, with the search criteria: clinical trials, free full text in English,research on humans. 2,581 manuscripts were found. After initial analysis, 188 publications were selected for further elaboration. Finally, 61 compatible publications were identified and included in the review. Abbreviated description of the state of knowledge In the treatment of Tourette’s syndrome with BoNT, despite the reduction in tics frequency, patients did not report any benefits. There are promising reports on the reduction of the intensity of neuropathic pain and neuralgia in trigeminal neuralgia after the use of BoNT-A. Improvement in rest tremor has been seen in patients with Parkinson’s disease. Administration of BoNT-A among patients with bruxism was associated with improved sleep quality and reduction of the symptoms intensity. Research confirms the effectiveness of using BoNT in the treatment of bothersome symptoms occurring in migraine, drooling, cervical dystonia and neurogenic bladder. Conclusions Although the use of BoNT in neurological diseases is widely studied and used, the appropriate administration technique and safety of use are worth further research.

Keywords

• botulinum
• neurology
• cervical dystonia
• migraine
• overactive bladder