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Botulinum Toxin for Scalp Conditions: A Systematic Review

Nguyen B, Perez SM, Tosti A

Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.], 2023

309 participants

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Many reports have described the use of botulinum toxin (BTX) in the treatment of scalp conditions, but no studies have synthesized these collective findings.

OBJECTIVE: We conducted a systematic review to summarize the scalp conditions for which treatment with BTX has been described.

METHODS: We searched PubMed/MEDLINE and Scopus for articles in English published before November 1, 2022, using the keywords "hair" or "scalp" and BTX-related search terms. Articles that described patients who received injections of BTX for the management of scalp conditions were included.

RESULTS: Twenty-four original articles (12 case reports, 9 clinical trials, and 3 case series) were identified that described 309 patients with a scalp condition treated with BTX. Androgenetic alopecia, craniofacial hyperhidrosis, and scalp hyperseborrhea had the most robust data supporting the clinical efficacy of BTX.

CONCLUSION: The current quality of evidence is highly variable and, for many conditions, limited to small observational studies. Botulinum toxin may be a promising therapeutic option for patients with various scalp conditions, but future studies are needed to better understand its efficacy and safety.

How strong is the evidence?

Evidence Hub reads this as a systematic review, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 309 participants or records.

How the five levels of evidence work. The level is assigned automatically from the abstract and can be wrong, so check the paper.

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