Treatment of gustatory sweating (Frey's syndrome) with botulinum toxin A

Abstract

Background: Gustatory sweating is a common complication of parotid surgery. Injection of botulinum toxin A has been reported as a safe and effective treatment option for patients with Frey's syndrome.

Patients and methods: A total of 69 patients who had undergone superficial parotidectomy because of adenoma were evaluated with respect to the incidence of Frey's syndrome and treatment interest. Minor's iodine starch test was used to detect the affected skin area. Affected skin areas were documented using a digital camera; skin areas were evaluated morphometrically. A single injection of Botox per 1 cm(2) skin field was administered to those patients interested in treatment.

Results: Of 43 patients (62%) with gustatory sweating, 33 patients requested treatment. The affected skin area varied from 16 cm(2) to 81 cm(2). The individual Botox dosage ranged from 16 to 80 IU. All relevant clinical symptoms of sweating disappeared within 1 week after a single injection. Treatment was well tolerated with no side effects.

Conclusion: Botox A injection is a safe and effective treatment with long-lasting effects for patients with extensive gustatory sweating.