Korean J Dermatol.  2008 Mar;46(3):334-340.

Comparative Study of 20% Aluminum Chloride Solution and Botulinum Toxin A Injection in the Treatment of Patients with Primary Palmar Hyperhidrosis

• Ahn SW
• Kim YJ
• Kim BJ
• Kim MN
• Lee DH
• Huh CH

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Primary hyperhidrosis carries a substantial psychological and social burden. Early detection and management can significantly improve a patient's quality of life. A large number of therapeutic options are used, such as the application of topical agents, iontophoresis, sympathectomy, and botulinum toxin injection.
OBJECTIVE
We aim to comprehensively evaluate the effects of botulinum toxin type A and 20% aluminum chloride on primary palmar hyperhidrosis.
METHODS
A total of 55 patients with clinical diagnosis of primary hyperhidrosis were treated by botulinum toxin type A and 20% aluminum chloride solution. To prospectively assess the effects on primary palmar hyperhidrosis, we checked corneometer at baseline, 2 and 4 months later. By regular meetings with patients, including telephone interviews, we analyzed patients' subjective satisfaction scores and complaints during the follow=up periods.
RESULTS
During the 2-month period, as compared with that of the control group, the level of corneometer of both groups declined. In the 4-month period, the group treated with 20% aluminum chloride sustained a lower level of corneometer. In the questionnaire, in the 2-month period, the group treated with botulinum toxin resulted in a lower level of overall treatment scores than that of the group treated with 20% aluminum chloride. However, in the 4-month period, the group treated with aluminum chloride showed lower scores.
CONCLUSION
Both botulinum toxin type A and aluminum chloride solution were safe and well tolerated, producing high levels of patient satisfaction. However, considering the long-term efficacy of treatment, aluminum chloride may be a more suitable mode of treatment for primary palmar hyperhidrosis.

Keyword

Aluminum chloride; Botulinum toxin; Corneometer; Hyperhidrosis

MeSH Terms

Aluminum
Aluminum Compounds
Botulinum Toxins
Botulinum Toxins, Type A
Chlorides
Humans
Hyperhidrosis
Interviews as Topic
Iontophoresis
Patient Satisfaction
Prospective Studies
Quality of Life
Sympathectomy
Surveys and Questionnaires
Aluminum
Aluminum Compounds
Botulinum Toxins
Botulinum Toxins, Type A
Chlorides