Rare DiseasesBenign Essential Blepharospasm: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Management

Benign Essential Blepharospasm: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Management

Benign essential blepharospasm (BEB) is a type of dystonia, a movement disorder. The main feature of BEB is the involuntary and repetitive contraction of the eyelids. These contractions can cause the person to close their eyelids or blink forcefully. BEB symptoms can be severe and can affect a person’s vision. Despite being called “benign,” BEB symptoms can significantly affect a person’s quality of life. The exact cause of BEB is not known, but genetic and environmental factors are thought to play a role. Treatment options may include botulinum toxin injections, oral medications, physiotherapy, and rarely surgical intervention.

What are the Causes of Benign Essential Blepharospasm?

The exact cause of benign essential blepharospasm is not known, but research has been conducted on some factors and mechanisms:

Genetic Factors: Genetic predisposition may play a significant role in the development of BEB.

Environmental Factors: Environmental factors, especially exposure to toxins or chemicals, are thought to contribute to the development of BEB.

Nervous System Anomalies: One of the underlying causes of BEB may be abnormalities in the functioning of certain brain areas called the basal ganglia.

Chemical Imbalance: Some studies suggest that imbalances in chemical substances such as dopamine and neurotransmitters may contribute to the development of BEB.

Age Factor: BEB typically occurs in middle age or older.

What are the Symptoms of Benign Essential Blepharospasm?

The symptoms of benign essential blepharospasm include:

  • Involuntary eye closure
  • Blinking
  • Itching
  • Photophobia
  • Vision problems
  • Eye fatigue
  • Social isolation
  • Stress and anxiety

How is Benign Essential Blepharospasm Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of benign essential blepharospasm is typically made by a neurologist or movement disorders specialist and may involve the following steps:

Medical History and Symptom Evaluation: The doctor begins by thoroughly reviewing the patient’s medical history and symptoms.

Physical Examination: The doctor performs a physical examination by examining the patient’s eyelids and facial muscles.

Electromyography (EMG): EMG may be used to confirm the diagnosis of BEB and rule out other muscle disorders.

Videotape Recording: The doctor may record videos to observe the involuntary contractions of the patient’s eyelids.

Treatment Response: To confirm the diagnosis of BEB, the doctor may observe how the symptoms respond to treatments such as botulinum toxin injections or other treatment methods.

How is Benign Essential Blepharospasm Treated?

The treatment of benign essential blepharospasm is personalized based on the severity of symptoms and the patient’s overall health:

Botulinum Toxin Injections: Botulinum toxin injections are one of the most commonly used methods in the treatment of BEB.

Oral Medications: Some oral medications may be used to alleviate BEB symptoms.

Physiotherapy: Physiotherapy or muscle training can help manage BEB symptoms.

Surgical Intervention: If BEB symptoms cannot be adequately controlled with other treatment options, surgical intervention may be considered.

Psychosocial Support: BEB patients can receive psychosocial support and counseling to cope with the stress, anxiety, and depression caused by the symptoms.

How Should Benign Essential Blepharospasm be Managed?

The management of benign essential blepharospasm aims to alleviate symptoms, improve the patient’s quality of life, and enable the continuation of daily activities:

Botulinum Toxin Injections: Botulinum toxin injections are commonly used to control BEB symptoms.

Medication: In some cases, oral muscle relaxants or neurological medications may be used to alleviate BEB symptoms.

Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation: Physiotherapy can be used to improve patients’ muscle control and involuntary muscle contraction patterns.

Psychosocial Support: BEB symptoms can lead to psychosocial problems such as stress, anxiety, and depression.

Support Groups: Support groups for BEB patients and their families can help them share their experiences, exchange information, and find emotional support.

Surgical Intervention: If BEB symptoms cannot be controlled with other treatment options, surgical intervention may be considered.

Daily Life Adjustments: Daily life adjustments can be made to accommodate BEB symptoms.

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