Injections of botulinum toxin A into the salivary glands improve sialorrhoea in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Issue 1 (1st July 2000)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Giess, R; Naumann, M; Werner, E; Riemann, R; Beck, M; Puls, I; Reiners, C; Toyka, K V
• Is Part Of: Journal of neurology, neurosurgery and psychiatry. Volume 69:Issue 1(2000)
• Page Start: 121
• Page End: 123
• Publication Date: 2000-07-01
• Subjects: ALS -- sialorrhoea -- salivary glands -- botulinum toxin A; Neurology -- Periodicals; Nervous system -- Surgery -- Periodicals; Psychiatry -- Periodicals; 616.8
• DOI: 10.1136/jnnp.69.1.121
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0022-3050

Abstract

Abstract : Sialorrhoea is a socially disabling problem in bulbar amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Botulinum toxin A (BoNT/A) was injected into the salivary glands in five patients with bulbar ALS and sialorrhoea. The effect of BoNT/A was measured by the number of paper handkerchiefs used each day and by salivary gland scintigraphy. BoNT/A ameliorated sialorrhoea and quality of life without major adverse effects. BoNT/A may be a relatively safe and effective treatment for sialorrhoea in selected patients.