blepharospasm
Last reviewed 04/2022
- blepharospasm is the spasmodic closure of the eyes as a result of involuntary contraction of orbicularis oculi. Commonly blepharospasm occurs as a response to ocular pain.
- repetitive blepharospasm is a form of focal dystonia
- this condition may be exacerbated by stress
- there may be other co-existing dystonias (e.g. oro-mandibular)
- generally starts unilaterally and then bilateral blepharospasm develops
- may be anteceded by particular conditions e.g. progressive supranuclear palsy, use of neuroleptic drugs, Parkinson's disease
- treatment measures include:
- anticholinergic drugs e.g. benzhexol
- botulinum toxin