Management of hyperhidrosis.

Primary hyperhidrosis (HH), a condition of sweating in excess of thermoregulatory requirements, affects nearly 3% of the US population and carries significant emotional and psychosocial implications. Unlike secondary HH, primary HH is not associated with an identifiable underlying pathology. Our limited understanding of the precise pathophysiologic mechanism for HH makes its treatment particularly frustrating. However, a wide array of interventions for the treatment of HH have been implemented throughout the world. Herein, we discuss the most extensively studied therapeutic options for primary HH, including systemic oxybutynin, botulinum toxin injections, skin excision, liposuction-curettage, and sympathotomy/sympathectomy. We conclude with a discussion of possible future therapies for HH, including the applications of laser, microwave, and ultrasound technologies.

Introduction

Hyperhidrosis (HH) is a condition characterized by sweating in excess of what is required for normal thermoregulation.1,2 With a prevalence of approximately 2.8% of the US population (1.4% axillary and 0.5% palmar, by national survey),3 HH is an often overlooked disorder that has significant impact on psychosocial functioning of affected patients.4–6 A family history is often reported by patients affected by HH, supporting a basis of genetic transmission that has been explored by Ro et al7 in a recent study.2 Although the greatest prevalence of primary HH is found among individuals aged 25–64 years, the age of onset is likely influenced by affected body region.8 Males and females appear to be affected equally.8 The purpose of this article is to present an up-to-date review of some of the therapies available for HH, including oxybutynin, botulinum toxin (Btx) injections, skin excision, liposuction–curettage (LC), and sympathotomy/sympathectomy. We will also present some new and emerging treatments. Topical therapies and isolated iontophoresis will not be discussed in this article.

Classification of HH

HH is broadly classified into two categories: primary HH and secondary HH. The diagnosis of primary HH, which is, by definition, not associated with an underlying condition, requires that other (potentially more serious) causative pathologies be ruled out.4 Secondary HH, in contrast, may be attributed to a number of other conditions, including endocrine disturbances, drugs, certain malignancies, and central nervous system abnormalities.4 HH can be further distinguished by anatomic distribution of affected regions and by laterality: unilateral versus bilateral and symmetrical.4 HH that affects numerous parts of the body is termed “generalized”, whereas “focal hyperhidrosis” refers to excessive sweating in a local, bilateral, and symmetrical distribution.2

Pathophysiology

The regions affected in HH correspond with areas of greatest density of eccrine and apoeccrine9 sweat glands – axillae, palms, soles, and face2 – with axillary HH being most common (1.4% of the US population),10 followed by palmar HH (0.5% of the US population).10 The adrenergically stimulated apocrine glands, which have a different distribution from eccrine glands, have not been demonstrated to contribute to HH.2 Whereas apocrine glands produce a more viscous, lipid-based secretion, eccrine glands secrete a watery hypotonic solution upon cholinergic stimulation.2 HH is believed to be caused by overactive cholinergic input to the eccrine glands,11 rather than by a defect of the gland apparatus, as histological examination of HH patients’ eccrine glands does not exhibit abnormalities such as gland hypertrophy or hyperplasia compared with those of individuals not affected by HH.2

Normal thermoregulatory mechanisms are centrally controlled through the anterior hypothalamus.10,12 Sweating associated with primary HH may be related to a dysfunction of the sympathetic nervous system and hypothalamus, coupled with input from the anterior cingulate cortex10 of the limbic system,13,14 possibly explaining the relationship between certain stimuli (such as emotions) and exacerbation of HH symptom manifestation.10 Recent research involving the immunohistochemical analysis of sympathetic ganglia of HH patients versus organ donor controls without history of HH demonstrates significantly higher expression of acetylcholine receptors (P<0.001) and significantly larger sympathetic chain ganglia (P<0.001) in the former group.15 These fascinating findings by de Moura Júnior et al15 may elucidate a more concrete pathophysiologic explanation for HH.

Assessment of disease severity

Objective assessment of HH severity and surface area affected can be performed with a variety of methods, including the Minor’s starch iodine test with gravimetric analysis,10 dynamic sudorometry,16,17 thermoregulatory sweat test,10 and skin conductance (SC).14

A subjective scale introduced by the Canadia Hyperhidrosis Advisory Committee, the Hyperhidrosis Disease Severity Scale (HDSS), allows patients to characterize the severity of their HH on a scale from 1 to 4.11,18,19 This scale is useful for assessment of relative improvement with therapy. Whereas a one-point improvement corresponds with approximately 50% reduction in perspiration, a two-point improvement corresponds with roughly 80% reduction.18 Other subjective tools include the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI)11,20 and visual analog scale (VAS).14

Treatment of HH

Oxybutynin

Because of the risks associated with surgical treatment of HH (eccrine gland resection, endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy [ETS], or video-assisted thoracic sympathectomy [VATS])21 and the possibility of compensatory hyperhidrosis (CH) after sympathectomy, oral anticholinergic medications present an appealing option.22 Oxybutynin, an anticholinergic oral medication used for conditions such as overactive bladder,22 has been employed in a number of cases for the treatment of HH.21–26 Wolosker et al22 recently evaluated patient satisfaction with oxybutynin versus placebo for the treatment of palmar, plantar, and axillary HH in a randomized, single-blinded trial of 50 patients (five of whom were lost to follow-up). Dosing schedule started at 2.5 mg daily for the first week, then 2.5 mg twice daily from days 8 to 21 and 5 mg twice daily starting at day 22. Significantly greater subjective improvement was seen in the oxybutynin groups compared with the placebo groups for palmar, axillary, and plantar HH. More than 70% of patients in the oxybutynin group treated for palmar or axillary HH noted significant improvement, whereas only 27.3% of the corresponding placebo group had moderate improvement (P<0.001).22 More than 90% of the oxybutynin-treated plantar HH patients achieved moderate or great improvement, whereas only 13.4% of the placebo-treated plantar HH group demonstrated moderate improvement (P<0.001). Quality of life (QOL) before and after treatment was also evaluated in the two patient groups. All patients reported poor to very poor QOL before treatment commenced. After treatment, oxybutynin resulted in significantly improved QOL (73.8%) compared with placebo (13.6%) across the three anatomical HH groups (P<0.001).22

A subsequent study conducted over a period of 6 years by Wolosker et al21 sought to evaluate the long-term effects of oxybutynin in 431 patients with axillary HH. A similar dosing schedule was employed. Ultimately, of the original 431 patients, only 181 patients were evaluated for more than 6 months, with 34 patients lost to follow-up on first visit and others failing to improve with oxybutynin after 6 weeks who were then referred for VATS (114).21 Twenty-six patients demonstrated positive results with oxybutynin treatment after 6 weeks but were referred for VATS due to unwillingness to remain on medication long-term. Six patients stopped treatment due to side effects. A final subset of patients (62) are currently undergoing oxybutynin treatment but are not included in the results of this study, as duration of therapy is currently <6 months. Of the 181 patients (129 female and 52 male) treated for at least 6 months with oxybutynin, 93.4% reported improvement at 6 weeks, while 82.9% of patients maintained substantial improvement after 24 weeks.21 When the investigators compared the level of improvement at 6 weeks and at final evaluation (median of 17 months), 57.4% of patients maintained the original level of improvement, while 23.3% further improved and 19.4% reported degradation of symptom resolution (P<0.001).21

Although a number of studies have demonstrated short-and long-term efficacy of oxybutynin in the treatment of primary HH, the anticholinergic side effects and requirement for chronic pharmacologic therapy limit the use of this medication for some patients. Dry mouth, headache, constipation, and urinary retention26 are relatively minor side effects seen with oxybutynin, particularly when daily dose exceeds 15 mg.21 For those patients uncomfortable with long-term reliance on pharmacologic therapy for HH, sympathectomy may provide a more appealing option. Wolosker et al21 also suggest that for those patients in whom side effects are intolerable or who fail to improve over 6 weeks (considered oxybutynin failure), sympathectomy or other treatment may be considered. Please see Table 1 for a summary of treatment options.

Table 1

Summary of studies and treatments

Study	Description	Findings
Oxybutynin
Wolosker et al22	BrazilOxybutynin vs placeboPalmar, plantar, axillary HH50 total patients, 5 lost to follow-up	Significantly greater subjective improvement in oxybutynin group (P<0.001)
Wolosker et al21	BrazilEffects of oxybutynin over 6 yearsAxillary HH181 of 431 patients evaluated long-term	At 6 weeks: 93.4% subjective improvementAt 24 weeks: 82.9% continued substantial improvementOver median of 17 months: 57.4% maintained same level of improvement; 23.3% further improved; 19.4% experienced some degree of relapse (P<0.001)
Btx
Bushara and Park35	Observed anhidrotic effect of Btx injections for facial spasmCraniofacial HH3 adult patients	Correlation between regions of injections with regions of relative anhidrosis
Bushara et al36	USAObserved anhidrotic effects of Btx A injectionsPalmar, axillary HH7 healthy patients: 2 patients Btx A injections into dorsal hand; 5 patients Btx A injections into one axillae	Day 2: complete anhidrosis dorsal hand (effect persisted 11 months)Day 3: 2/5 axillae completely dry, 1/5 axillae demonstrated ↓ sweating (effect persisted 6–8 months), 2/5 axillae demonstrated no effect
Rosell et al20	SwedenBtx A (Xeomin) and Btx B (Neurobloc) injections for palmar HHBtx A (Xeomin) injections for axillary HHPatients ranked treatment effects from 1 (no effect) to 5 (completely dry)Assessed DLQI	Palmar HH group: 100% patients either 4 or 5Axillary HH group: 95% satisfiedSignificant DLQI improvement in both groups at 3 weeks (P<0.05)
Basciani et al37	ItalyBtx B injectionsPalmar HHMinor’s starch iodine and weight measurement (baseline and at 4, 12, and 24 weeks after injection)	Significant ↓ sweating both palms (P<0.001)Side effects: local pain, hand weakness
Lecouflet et al38	FranceBtx A injectionsAssess safety and duration of efficacy with repeated injectionsAxillary HH83 patientsApproximately 11 years	Duration of efficacy of injections significantly ↑ with time (P<0.0002)Median duration of effect: first injection 5.5 months; last injection 8.5 months
Lecouflet et al41	FranceBtx A injectionsAssess safety and duration of efficacy with repeated injectionsPalmar HH28 patientsApproximately 11 years	Duration of efficacy of injections significantly ↑ with time (P<0.0002)Median duration of effect: from first injection 7 months; from last injection 9.5 months
Surgery
Local excision
Heidemann and Licht64	DenmarkThoracic sympathotomy vs local skin resectionAxillary HH96 patientsMedian follow-up 26 monthsQuestionnaire (returned by 92% of patients)	Symptom recurrence more common with local skin excision (51% vs 5%; P<0.001)Significantly better symptom resolution with local skin excision (P<0.001)Significantly less CH and gustatory sweating with local skin excision (25% vs 84% and 26% vs 54%, respectively; P=0.01)
LC
Wollina et al49	GermanyLocal skin excision + SQ curettage vs tumescent LCAxillary HH163 patients total: 37 patients received LC, 125 patients received excision with SQ curettageMinor’s starch iodine test and subjective scale	Relapse rate at 12 months →LC group: 16.2%; excision + curettage group: 1.0% (P<0.01)Pain → LC group: 89.2% pain free; excision + curettage group: 24.0% pain free (P<0.01)Complications in LC group: mild hematoma, suture-associated irritationComplications seen only in the excision + curettage group: ↑ time required for healing, wound infections, bleedingOther benefits of LC group: ↓ time to return to work, more aesthetically sensitive scars
Tronstad et al14	NorwayIsolated curettage vs LCAxillary HH22 patients total, 5 lost to follow-upSC, gravimetric measurement, VAS	LC group → significantly lower SC (P=0.011), gravimetric measurements (P=0.028); better VAS scores for sweating (P<0.01)
Ibrahim et al55	USALC vs Btx A injectionsAxillary HH20 patientsFollow-up at 3 and 6 months	At 3 months: no significant difference between LC and Btx A, but “heavy sweaters” experienced significantly greater relief from Btx A than from LC (P=0.0025)At both 3 and 6 months: greater satisfaction, more improved QOL with Btx (P=0.0002) than with LC (P=0.0017)
Sympathectomy and sympathotomy
Bell et al63	AustraliaETS efficacy, adverse eventsPalmar, axillary, and/or craniofacial HH210 patients total, 19 lost to follow-up	Significant improvement in all 3 groups (P<0.001): 97% palmar HH: 97%, 93% craniofacial, 71% axillaryCH developed in 75% of patientsRates of severe CH: craniofacial 44.5%, axillary 26%, palmar 8% (P=0.0003)
Atkinson et al57	USAEndoscopic thoracic limited sympathotomy (T1, T2 ganglia spared)Palmar, axillary, plantar HH155 patients	Percent improvement of sweating >3 months postoperatively: 96.6% palmar; 69.2% axillary; 39.8% plantarLong-term: palmar HH recurrence in 5 patients, severe CH in 2 patients (1.3%)
Heidemann and Licht64	DenmarkThoracic sympathotomy vs local skin resectionAxillary HH96 patients total, 8% lost to follow-upMedian follow-up 26 monthsQuestionnaire (returned by 92% of patients)	Symptom recurrence more common with local skin excision (51% vs 5%; P<0.001)Significantly better symptom resolution with local skin excision (P<0.001)Significantly less CH, gustatory sweating with local skin excision (25% vs 84% and 26% vs 54%, respectively; P=0.01)
Lesèche et al69	FranceRelationship between extent of sympathectomy (2–5 levels) and CH occurrencePalmar and/or axillary HH134 patients	No significant difference in incidence and severity of CH with respect to degree of sympathectomy
Yuncu et al66	TurkeyIsolated T3 vs T3 + T4 sympathectomyAxillary HH60 patients	100% of patients (both groups) experienced both immediate and 1-year duration of HH resolutionAt 1-year follow-up: significantly more CH in T3 + T4 group than in isolated T3 group (100% vs 79%; P=0.008)
Yang et al70	People’s Republic of ChinaPalmar HH163 patients total: 78 patients underwentT3 sympathicotomy, 85 patients underwentT4 sympathicotomy	Resolution of palmar HH in all patients (both groups)No recurrence at mean follow-up 13.8±6.2 monthsCH incidence greater in T3 than T4 group
Abd Ellatif et al71	EgyptPalmar HH274 patients: 129 received T3 sympathectomy, 145 received T4 sympathectomyRetrospective cohort study	CH reported in 74.4% of T3 groupCH reported in 28.3% of T4 groupHigher incidence of mild to moderate CH in T3 group (64.4% vs 26.9%; P=0.001)Recurrence rate similar for T3 and T4 (0.8% vs 1.4%; P=0.19)
Cerfolio et al72	USAExpert consensus document	Designation of disrupted level based on rib (R) number (R# rather than T#)Type of disruption should be explicitly noted (ablation vs resection, etc)Recommended levels for disruption of sympathetic chain based on HH type: Palmar (isolated) HH: top of R3, top of R4Palmar, plantar, axillary HH: R4 and R5Craniofacial HH: top of R3
Miller and Force73	USATemporary sympathetic blockade (with bupivacaine + epinephrine) as predictor of patients likely to develop CHPalmar, axillary, plantar HH18 patientsMedian 4 days	Median 4 days follow-up: 100% symptom resolution, 12% developed CH (one of whom reported severe CH and declined ETS)Patients with mild CH after temporary blockade also experienced mildCH after ETS100% of patients who underwent ETS were satisfied
Zhu et al74	People’s Republic of ChinaTransumbilical ETS vs traditional ETSPalmar HH66 patients (34 transumbilical, 32 traditional)	100% of patients reported symptom resolutionGreater incidence of CH in transumbilical group (20.1%) than in traditional group (18.8%) – not statistically significant (P>0.05)Transumbilical approach associated with significantly fewer paresthesias at 1 day, 1 month postoperatively (P=0.015, P<0.001, respectively)Transumbilical approach achieved greater patient satisfaction with cosmetic outcome (94.1% vs 71.9%; P=0.036)
Zhu et al75	People’s Republic of ChinaTransumbilical ETSPalmar and/or axillary HH35 patients1-year follow-up	At 1-year follow-up: 97.1% success in symptom resolution for palmarHH, 72.2% for axillary HH94.3% satisfied with the excellence in the cosmetic outcome of the surgical incision
New therapies
Delivery of Btx
Andrade et al76	BrazilIontophoresis or phonophoresis forpercutaneous delivery of Btx APalmar HH4 patients	16 weeks of symptom relief after 10 daily sessions
Vadoud-Seyedi and Simonart77	BelgiumBtx A reconstituted in lidocaine vs Btx A reconstituted in salineAxillary HH29 patients	Symptom resolution in both groupsSignificantly less pain with injection of lidocaine-reconstituted vs saline-reconstituted preparation (29.3±20.1 vs 47.5±24.0; P=0.0027)
Güleç78	TurkeyBtx A reconstituted in saline + lidocaine vs Btx A reconstituted in saline aloneAxillary HH8 patientsPain (VAS)	Symptom resolution in both groupsSignificantly less pain in Btx A reconstituted with saline + lidocaine (41.3±15.3 vs 63.8±16.7; P=0.026)
Laser technology
Goldman and Wollina82	Brazil1,064 nm Nd:YAG laser (no control)Axillary HH17 patients	Histological analysis of laser-treated skin: microvesiculation, decapitation, total vaporization of eccrine glands
Letada et al85	USALong-pulsed 1,064 nm Nd:YAG laser vs no treatment of contralateral axillaeAxillary HH6 patients	Objective and subjective improvement in axillae treated by laser compared with control (untreated axillae) → only subjective changes determined significant (P<0.001)Histological evaluation: no differences between pre- and posttreatment
Caplin and Austin86	USA1,440 nm Nd:YAG laser (no control)Axillary HH15 patients1-year follow-up	At 1-year follow-up: 72% of patients reported 2 points improvement in HDSS, 28% reported 1 point improvement in HDSS
Bechara et al84	GermanyLong-pulsed 800 nm diode laser vs no treatment contralateral axillaeAxillary HH21 patients	No statistically significant difference between laser-treated and untreated axillaeBoth laser and control axillae demonstrated significant reduction in sweat rates (P<0.001, P=0.04, respectively)Histological evaluation: no significant changes between pre- and posttreatment
Microwave technology
Hong et al90	CanadaMicrowave-based device (no control)Axillary HH31 patientsHDSS, DLQI, gravimetric sweat measurementsFollow-up at 1, 3, 6, 12 months	Pretreatment: 100% of patients reported HDSS of 3 or 4Percent of patients with ≥50% ↓ in gravimetric sweat measurements: at 1 month: 90%, at 3 months: 94%, at 6 months: 90%, at 12 months: 90%At final (12-month) visit: ≥1 point ↓ in HDSS in 94% of patients, ≥2 point ↓ in HDSS in 55% of patients, average ↓ in DLQI significantly >5 points (P>0.001)Adverse events: site-related redness, swelling, discomfort, abnormal skin sensation, neuropathy, and weakness
Ultrasound technology
Nestor and Park93	USAMFU-V vs shamAxillary HHFirst study: 16 patients total, 1 excluded due to device malfunction, 1 lost to follow-upSecond study: 20 patients total, 1 lost to follow-up	All patient pretreatment HDSS scores of 3 or 4 and ≥50 mg per 5-minute period of axillary sweat secretion (per axillae)First study: criteria for positive response: ≥50% ↓ spontaneous axillary hidrosis on 120th day, >50% of patients positive responseSecond study: criteria for positive response: ↓ in HDSS from 3 or 4 to 1 or 2Positive response in 67% of MFU-V group; no response in sham group (P<0.005)Statistically significant improvement in gravimetric measurement in MFU-V group vs sham group (83% vs 0%, P<0.0001)Relationship between changes in HDSS and percent change in gravimetric analysis (P=0.005) independent of time

Abbreviations: HH, hyperhidrosis; Btx, botulinum toxin; Btx A, botulinum toxin A; Btx B, botulinum toxin B; DLQI, Dermatology Life Quality Index; CH, compensatory hyperhidrosis; LC, liposuction–curettage; SQ, subcutaneous; SC, skin conductance; VAS, visual analog scale; QOL, quality of life; ETS, endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy; MFU-V, microfocused ultrasound coupled with visualization; HDSS, Hyperhidrosis Disease Severity Scale; vs, versus.

Botulinum toxin

The highly potent Btx, derived from Clostridium botulinum, has been employed in a number of medical settings, including minimizing the appearance of facial wrinkles, treatment of cervical dystonia and movement disorders, and alleviation of hypersalivation and HH.27–31 By inhibiting the release of acetylcholine from presynaptic cholinergic neurons, Btx effectively produces paralysis at the neuromuscular junction and similarly inhibits sweat secretion by “chemical denervation”.11 Although there are seven different Btx subtypes (A–G),27 two in particular have been studied for use in humans: Btx A, which cleaves the SNAP-25 SNARE protein, and Btx B, which cleaves the VAMP SNARE protein.20 Without these anchoring proteins, synaptic vesicles carrying acetylcholine cannot dock to release the contents into the synapse via exocytosis.32–34

Recognizing the previous evidence of Btx’s effects on sympathetic cholinergic fibers of animals’ sweat glands, Bushara and Park35 examined the neurotoxin’s anhidrotic effects on patients treated with Btx injections for facial spasm. In a small study of three adult patients, the investigators confirmed regions of anhidrosis corresponding with the regions and sides of the faces that received injections.35 In a subsequent study, Bushara et al36 proceeded to demonstrate the anhidrotic effects of Btx injections in seven healthy patients as well. Since that time, numerous studies have demonstrated effective treatment of axillary, palmar–plantar, and craniofacial HH with Btx injections.

In a recent study of 84 patients with primary focal HH treated with intracutaneous Btx injections, Rosell et al20 demonstrated patient satisfaction of both axillary and palmar HH treatment. Axillary HH was treated with Xeomin (Btx A) and palmar HH with both Xeomin and Neurobloc (Btx B). Because of its less significant effects on muscle strength, Btx B is useful for palmar HH where there is concern for development of muscular weakness of the hands. On a scale from 1 to 5, where “1” corresponds to no effect and “5” with “satisfied and completely dry”, all palmar HH patients ranked treatment as either 4 or 5, and 95% of axillary HH patients were also satisfied with treatment.20 At 3 weeks follow-up, both the palmar and axillary HH patient groups also demonstrated significant improvement of DLQI scores with treatment: axillary 12.0±5.5 to 1.7±2.6 and palmar 10.3±7.0 to 1.2±1.5 (P<0.05 for both groups).20

In an Italian study of 32 patients by Basciani et al,37 the efficacy and safety of Btx B in the treatment of palmar HH were evaluated. Baseline sweating levels were ascertained through the Minor’s iodine starch test with weight measurement. The same tests were also performed at 4, 12, and 24 weeks after Btx B injections. After injection of 5,000 IU of Btx B into each palm, reduction of sweating levels from baseline at 4, 12, and 24 weeks in both the right and left palms was statistically significant: right palm 2.9±1.4, 0.3±0.4, 0.9±0.8, and 2.1±1.5 g (P<0.001), left palm 2.8±1.7, 0.5±0.6, 0.8±0.7, and 1.8±1.25 g (P<0.001), respectively. Adverse effects such as local pain and hand weakness were seen in 12.5% of patients and were considered minor.

Since the use of Btx for HH began, there have been numerous studies demonstrating the effectiveness of this treatment for primary HH.1,11,20,27,29,37–40 However, because primary HH is a chronic condition, questions about longevity of treatment efficacy remain.37 In a French study of 83 patients with primary axillary HH, Lecouflet et al38 demonstrated increased duration of efficacy of Btx A injections with repetition. Over a period just short of 11 years, the patients were treated with 125 U of Btx A intradermal injections per axillae, and the duration of results of the first and last injections was recorded. The investigators showed that duration of efficacy of the injections increased with time in a statistically significant manner (P<0.0002), where median duration of effect was 5.5 months for the first injection and 8.5 months for the last.

In a similar concurrent study of 28 patients, Lecouflet et al41 also showed increased duration of efficacy of Btx A injections with repetition in patients with primary palmar HH. Patients were treated with 250 U of Btx A in each palm over approximately 11 years; injections were repeated when HH symptoms reemerged. The investigators demonstrated a statistically significant increase in longevity of the injections’ effects with repetition, with median duration of effect of 7 months from initial injection to 9.5 months for the last (P<0.0002).41 Interestingly, the results of this study undermine a common concern about chronic Btx injections: the risk of immunoresistance to the neurotoxin proteins.20 This evidence of increased duration of effect with repetition of injections serves to refute fears that resistance to the neurotoxin’s effects may develop with repeated injections due to the formation of neutralizing antibodies.28,38,42 As elucidated in a study for such antibodies in Btx treatments for cervical dystonia, Jankovic et al43 explain that immunoresistance is more likely with high doses with each treatment, shorter periods between subsequent injections, and large cumulative dose.38 They also explain that a high protein content of the injection may be associated with greater risk of antibody formation.38,43

Surgery

Local excision

Local excision of eccrine glands has been a treatment option for axillary HH for decades.44–46 The procedure, which is conducted on an outpatient basis with local anesthesia,47 can be performed either in combination with overlying skin excision (radical skin excision) or without skin removal (skin sparing).48 Proponents of radical skin excision consider this method to be more comprehensive because it involves removal of dermally located eccrine glands in addition to those located in the dermal–subcutaneous junction.47 Although effective in resolving symptoms, this procedure often requires the placement of drains49 and is associated with a number of complications and side effects, including infection, seroma, hematoma, necrosis, and atrophic or hypertrophic scarring.49–51 Since the introduction of glandular excision, advances in the local surgical treatment of axillary HH have included the addition of liposuction and/or curettage, with the goal of optimizing glandular disruption while minimizing surgical complications and offensive scars.14,49,51,52

Liposuction–curettage

Unlike excision of axillary skin and eccrine glands, LC is a minimally invasive and effective treatment for HH that results in improved cosmetic outcomes and less scarring.52 One retrospective trial performed in Germany highlights the advantages and disadvantages of both surgical procedures. In order to assess the differences in efficacy and risks of local skin excision with subcutaneous curettage versus tumescent LC, Wollina et al49 evaluated 162 patients with primary axillary HH. Thirty-seven patients underwent LC and the remaining 125 patients were treated by excision with subcutaneous curettage. Both objective (Minor’s starch iodine test) and subjective (satisfaction scale) measures of effectiveness were employed. At 12 months postoperatively, the relapse rate for LC was 16.2% of patients and for excision with curettage was 1.0% of patients (P<0.01).49 However, when asked about absence or near absence of pain in the acute period, patients who had undergone LC (89.2% pain free) fared significantly better than those who had received excision with curettage (24.0% pain free; P<0.01).49 A number of complications were seen in the excision group but not in the LC group: protracted healing time (14), wound infections (seven), and bleeding (two).49 Complications noted in the LC group were minor, including mild hematoma in 29 patients and suture-associated irritation in six patients.49 Also noteworthy for the LC group was a significantly shorter time to return to work (1.3±0.8 days vs 8.8±3.5 days; P<0.001) and surgical scars without atrophy, hypertrophy, or hyperpigmentation.49 Of note, patient to procedure allocation was not randomized, and while excision with curettage was reimbursed, patients who received LC were required to pay out of pocket for the procedure. Wollina et al49 concede that this may have influenced the LC group to anticipate better results from this more expensive treatment. Considering the less serious complications (and lower associated costs), better cosmetic outcome, and resolution of symptoms, LC provides a promising option for axillary HH.49

In a study comparing isolated curettage versus LC for axillary HH, Tronstad et al14 demonstrated significantly better symptom resolution with tumescent suction curettage. Each of the 22 patients received both treatments, LC to one axillae and isolated curettage to the opposite axillae. Data were available for only 17 of the 22 patients because of participant withdrawal or lack of follow-up.14 Evaluations were performed before surgery and at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Assessment for HH, which was evaluated during stress testing, was performed objectively by SC and gravimetric measurement and subjectively by VAS.14 The LC group demonstrated significantly lower SC (P=0.011) and gravimetric measurements (P=0.028) as well as better VAS scores of sweating (P<0.01) at all three postoperative visits.14 The authors suspect that because of the inherently more extensive tissue disruption associated with suctioning, LC is likely a more comprehensive procedure than is curettage alone, which simply disrupts glandular tissue without resecting it.14 Furthermore, because liposuction extracts adipose tissue, it is possible that mesenchymal stem cells within this tissue are also successfully removed with LC rather than left behind with simple curettage where they may have regenerative potential.14,53,54 Longer-term follow-up to elucidate the possible effects of retained mesenchymal stem cells on relapse of HH symptoms would be beneficial.

Ibrahim et al55 compared the effectiveness and patient satisfaction of LC versus Btx A injections in 20 axillary HH patients. Toxin injections were randomized to one axillae of each patient and the opposite axillae was treated by LC. Follow-up was performed at 3 and 6 months. No significant differences between the two treatment modalities were noted for baseline sweating levels at 3 months. However, for patients categorized as heavy sweaters, Btx injections provided significantly greater HH relief than did LC at 3 months (P=0.0025). Furthermore, at both 3 and 6 months after treatment, patients reported greater satisfaction and improved QOL with Btx A injections (0.80 points; P=0.0002) than with LC (0.90 points; P=0.0017).55 Although the reason for differences in patient satisfaction with the two compared treatments is not elucidated, this study highlights the importance of offering more conservative treatment options before proceeding to surgical intervention for HH.

Sympathectomy

In the interests of developing a safer procedure with optimized visualization of the sympathetic chain, Kux56 introduced a now commonly performed operation called ETS in 1951. Initially recommended in the treatment of peptic ulcer disease and other maladies,56 ETS has since been applied successfully to the treatment of primary HH, particularly of the palms and soles.19,57 Although very effective in resolving symptoms of HH, a significant concern with ETS is the development of CH, a postsympathectomy condition of excessive sweating in a different anatomic region from the original HH manifestation.58 Reported rates of CH after sympathectomy range from 30% to 90%.59–61 Severe CH is defined as CH troublesome enough that the patient regrets undergoing ETS.57 The incidence of severe CH after sympathectomy is approximately 35%.62 A discussion of this procedure’s efficacy and incidence of CH follows.

In a retrospective cohort study of 210 patients with palmar, axillary, and/or craniofacial HH, Bell et al63 evaluated the efficacy and incidence of adverse events with ETS as performed by a single surgeon. Electrocautery ablation was used on the sympathetic chain along its course over the second, third, and fourth ribs to target the second, third, and fourth thoracic ganglia; if identified intraoperatively, the accessory nerve(s) of Kuntz was also ablated.63 The median age of patients was 28 years, the youngest of whom was 11 years old. ETS for palmar and craniofacial HH yielded better resolution of HH than for axillary HH, although all groups demonstrated statistically significant improvement: 97% improvement in palmar, 93% in craniofacial, and 71% in axillary HH (P<0.001).63 Although 75% of patients developed CH, only 12% considered it bothersome. The rates of severe CH were greatest in those treated for axillary HH (26%) and craniofacial HH (44.5%) and lowest in those treated for palmar HH (8%; P=0.0003).63 Furthermore, while rates of severe CH increased with patient age, satisfaction with the results of ETS declined with age in a similar manner.63 Although ETS is an effective therapy for HH, Bell et al63 emphasize the importance of transparent patient education about the risk of CH prior to surgery, as only 25% of patients who developed severe CH reported satisfaction with ETS even in light of improvement of their HH symptoms.

An alternative to sympathectomy, sympathotomy disrupts axons postsynaptically after the T2 ganglion to avoid overzealous neural injury that may result in the neuronal regeneration leading to severe CH.57 In contrast with sympathectomy, sympathotomy does not include ganglionectomy.57 While the incidence of severe CH after sympathectomy is approximately 35%, the rate of this adverse event after sympathotomy is approximately only 1.3%.62 In a study of 155 patients (44 male, 111 female) with palmar–plantar HH, Atkinson et al57 evaluated the results from endoscopic thoracic limited sympathotomy, where the ganglion cells in T1 and T2 were undisturbed. Immediately postoperatively, all 155 study patients exhibited warm, dry palms and after more than 3 months postoperatively, 96.6% demonstrated successful control of palmar hidrosis, 69.2% had diminished axillary sweating, and 39.8% had decreased plantar sweating. Long-term follow-up revealed recurrence of palmar sweating in five patients, and severe CH was noted in only two patients (1.3%).57

Heidemann and Licht64 provide a comparison between thorascopic sympathicotomy and local axillary skin resection for the treatment of axillary HH in 96 patients. Median follow-up for determination of treatment efficacy was 26 months, performed by questionnaire by both groups (92% of which were returned for inclusion in the study). Although recurrence of symptoms was more common with local skin excision (51% vs 5%; P<0.001), this procedure was also associated with significantly better local symptom resolution (P<0.001) and significantly less incidence of CH and gustatory sweating (25% vs 84% and 26% vs 54%, respectively; P=0.01).64

Some studies suggest that limiting the levels obliterated during ETS may result in lower risk of CH,57,65–67 while others refute this claim.58,68,69 Lesèche et al69 evaluated 134 patients with either isolated palmar or axillary HH or a combination of the two to determine the relationship between extent of sympathectomy and occurrence of CH. Although sympathectomies can range from level T1 to T5, a recent prospective study revealed no significant difference in incidence and severity of CH with respect to degree of sympathectomy.69 The authors concede that low statistical power may have contributed to limitations of this study’s interpretability.69

In contrast, Yuncu et al66 demonstrated significantly lower CH incidence after limited sympathectomy (T3 only) compared with sympathectomy of T3 and T4. Sixty patients with axillary HH were randomized to either group 1 or group 2. The 17 patients in group 1 received sympathectomy of T3 and T4, while the 43 patients in group 2 underwent only T3 sympathectomy. All 60 patients experienced immediate and lasting (1 year) resolution of their axillary HH. However, at 1-year follow-up, group 1 demonstrated significantly more CH than did group 2 (100% vs 79%; P=0.008).66

Although degree of sympathotomy/sympathectomy (total number of levels disrupted) has not been conclusively correlated with risk of CH, it appears that the absolute level has, with lower chain disruption resulting in lower CH incidence.70,71 In their assessment of T3 versus T4 sympathicotomy for palmar HH in 163 patients, Yang et al70 found a significantly lower rate of moderate CH in the T4 group. (No significant difference between the two groups was observed in rates of mild HH). Similarly, a retrospective review by Abd Ellatif et al71 in Egypt also revealed a greater incidence of CH following T3 versus T4 sympathectomy for palmar HH. From the total of 274 patients, 129 had T3 disruption, whereas 145 had T4 disruption of the sympathetic chain. While 74.4% of the T3 group reported CH, only 28.3% of the T4 group reported this adverse effect.71

The variability in type and extent of sympathetic chain disruption has presented significant challenges in drawing useful comparisons of the various procedures performed in different centers throughout the world. A consensus article from Cerfolio et al72 recommends a standardized nomenclature for sympathetic chain disruption and provides sympathectomy guidelines for practitioners based on HH type. The consensus authors recognized that the lack of a standardized naming convention impeded interpretation and comparison of procedures performed by different surgeons. Furthermore, considering the variability in anatomy between patients, the authors noted that nomenclature based on more consistent anatomic landmarks was warranted. Therefore, the authors recommended the designation “R” for rib followed by the rib number to denote the location of chain disruption. In addition, the method of interruption should be explicitly stated (eg, cauterized, clipped, cut).72 In regard to the optimal levels of chain disruption based on type of HH, Cerfolio et al72 recommend chain disruption at the top of R3 or R4 for isolated palmar HH; R4 and R5 for palmar, plantar, and axillary HH; and the top of R3 for craniofacial HH.

Miller and Force73 presented the option of performing a temporary sympathetic blockade before definitive sympathectomy to predict those patients most likely to develop CH and therefore be dissatisfied with the results of ETS. In their assessment of 18 patients suffering from combinations of palmar, axillary, and plantar HH, the operators performed temporary blockades of T2, T3, and accessory nerves with bupivacaine plus epinephrine. For a median of 4 days, all patients experienced relief of HH and three of the 18 (12%) developed CH.73 Only one of these patients reported severe CH and decided not to proceed with ETS. Interestingly, the two patients who endorsed mild CH symptoms after temporary blockade were the same two participants who experienced mild CH after ETS. Nevertheless, all patients who underwent ETS were satisfied with the results of the procedure.73 The authors suggest that temporary sympathetic blockade at the anticipated surgical levels be performed to help predict likelihood of developing CH after ETS.73

Beyond the risk of CH following ETS, there is also concern about cosmetic outcome and risk of chronic chest wall pain and paresthesias.74,75 Although the thoracic wall approach with endoscopy involves the creation of relatively small incisions,75 the desire for a less invasive approach and interest in preventing intercostal nerve injury have driven new procedural innovations. Investigators in the People’s Republic of China have recently explored the possibility of using natural orifice access for thoracic sympathectomy in the treatment of HH and have shown promising preliminary results. Zhu et al74 evaluated 66 patients with palmar HH, 34 of whom underwent transumbilical ETS and 32 of whom underwent traditional transthoracic VATS. All 66 patients reported successful treatment of their palmar HH. Although CH was noted in more transumbilical patients (seven patients, 20.1%) than in VATS patients (six patients, 18.8%), the difference was not statistically significant (P>0.05).74 Patients who had received transumbilical ETS reported significantly fewer paresthesias at 1 day, 1 week, and 1 month after surgery compared with those who underwent VATS (P=0.015, P<0.001, P<0.001, respectively). In further support of the transumbilical approach, patients who had received this intervention reported significantly greater satisfaction with cosmetic outcome as well (94.1% vs 71.9%; P=0.036).74 In a subsequent study by Zhu et al,75 a 1-year follow-up was provided for 35 patients who had received transumbilical thoracic sympathectomy for palmar and/or axillary HH. At 1 year, a 97.1% success rate (34 of 35) for palmar HH was noted, and a 72.2% success rate (13 of 18) was reported for axillary HH.75 Out of all 35 patients, 94.3% reported satisfaction with cosmetic outcome of the 5 mm incision transumbilical approach at 12 months postoperatively.75 A transumbilical approach for sympathectomy may be associated with fewer postoperative complications, lower risk of chest wall pain and paresthesias, and better cosmetic outcomes.74,75

New and emerging therapies

New delivery methods for Btx

An intriguing investigation by Andrade et al76 evaluated the use of iontophoresis or phonophoresis to facilitate delivery of Btx A percutaneously for palmar HH. They evaluated four patients after ten daily sessions of either phonophoresis- or iontophoresis-mediated Btx administration. Improvement of HH lasted for 16 weeks after treatment.76 Because iontophoresis alone is a treatment available for HH, it would have been useful to see a comparison of this combination therapy (iontophoresis or phonophoresis plus Btx A) versus each individual treatment alone. Considering this weakness of the study, it is impossible to interpret the relative contributions to therapeutic effect of the individual components of this treatment regimen. Although this study represents a preliminary small sample view of this combination of HH therapies, it may be a promising option for patients for whom needle injections for Btx administration are unacceptable.

In the interests of exploring less painful options for HH patients interested in Btx injections, Vadoud-Seyedi and Simonart77 performed a double-blind, randomized trial where one axillae of each patient was treated with Btx A reconstituted in lidocaine, and the contralateral axillae treated with Btx A reconstituted in saline (equal volumes). A total of 29 patients were evaluated and follow-up was provided for up to 8 months. Although both lidocaine- and saline-reconstituted Btx A successfully treated HH, the lidocaine–Btx A combination was associated with significantly less pain than the saline–Btx A solution during the injection (29.3±20.1 vs 47.5±24.0; P=0.0027).

Güleç78 performed a similar assessment of relative pain differences with Btx A injections when lidocaine is added to saline. Each of the eight participants received both treatment combinations – one type for each axillae in a randomized manner. While one axillae was injected with 50 U Btx A combined with 0.5 mL saline and 1.0 mL of 2% lidocaine, the contralateral axillae received 50 U Btx A with 1.5 mL saline only. Successful resolution of axillary HH was seen in both treatment combinations (without significant differences in efficacy between the two), but pain by VAS was significantly less in the Btx A–lidocaine-treated axilla than the Btx A–saline-treated axilla (41.3±15.3 vs 63.8±16.7; P=0.026).78

Laser technology

Beyond serving as a modality during sympathectomy for HH,79,80 laser technology has also been employed externally for glandular disruption in the treatment of HH and osmidrosis.81–87 Goldman and Wollina82 investigated the use of a 1,064 nm Nd:YAG laser for axillary HH in 17 patients and determined this modality safe and effective by subjective and objective measures (P-value not provided). Histological analysis of laser-treated axillary skin revealed microvesiculation and decapitation to total vaporization of eccrine glands, findings to which they attributed the clinical effects of laser treatment.82 Of note, pretreatment tissue samples were not obtained and histologically evaluated.

In their prospective, case-controlled, randomized evaluation, Letada et al85 similarly evaluated the long-pulsed 1,064 nm Nd:YAG laser in the treatment of axillary HH in six patients. One axillae of each patient received Nd:YAG laser treatment monthly, while the opposite axillae of each patient served as a control. Tissue samples for histological evaluation were obtained before and after laser treatment. Both objective (starch iodine test) and subjective improvements were noted in comparison with the contralateral untreated axillae, although only subjective changes were determined statistically significant (P<0.001). Histological evaluation demonstrated no differences between pre- and posttreatment histologic specimens.85

Caplin and Austin86 also demonstrated durability of laser treatment for axillary HH in their study of 15 patients treated with a 1,440 nm Nd:YAG laser. At 1 year posttreatment, improvement in HDSS of two points was seen in 72% of patients, while improvement of one point was seen in 28% of patients.

Bechara et al84 evaluated the use of a long-pulsed 800 nm diode laser for axillary HH in a randomized, controlled study of 21 patients. The contralateral axillae of each patient served as a control while the treated side received five cycles of the 800 nm diode laser. In contrast with the studies described earlier, no statistically significant difference was observed between the treated and nontreated sides. However, both the laser-treated and non-treated sides did demonstrate reduction in sweat rates that was statistically significant (P<0.001, P=0.04, respectively).84 Comparison of histological evaluation before and after treatment revealed no significant changes in eccrine nor apocrine gland apparatuses, including glandular damage and changes in gland size or number.84

While some investigators have found lasers useful in the treatment of HH, others have serendipitously observed the development of excessive sweating after laser hair removal in the axillary74 and inguinal regions.88,89 Although more studies are necessary, laser treatment for HH may provide a promising option for patients who have received unsatisfactory results from topical and/or systemic treatments and are interested in exploring other relatively less invasive modalities before considering surgery.

Microwave technology

Hong et al90 evaluated a recently US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved microwave-based device designed by Miramar Labs for its efficacy in treating axillary HH in 31 patients. The microwave’s selective heating of the dermis and glandular tissue more than subcutaneous fat is based on the relatively greater water content.91 Because apocrine glands are also located in the target region, the study was able to evaluate the microwave technology’s effects on axillary bromhidrosis as well.90 Assessments were performed with HDSS, DLQI, and gravimetric sweat measurements; all patients reported a pretreatment HDSS of either 3 or 4. After completion of the procedures, follow-up was performed at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. The investigators found that 94% of patients experienced at least a one-point decrease in HDSS, while 55% reported a two-point or greater drop in HDSS.90 Furthermore, the average reduction in DLQI (over the follow-up intervals) was significantly greater than five points (P<0.001).90 Gravimetric sweat measurements also improved after microwave therapy, with a ≥50% reduction in 90%, 94%, 90%, and 90% of patients at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months, respectively.90 Patients with pretreatment axillary bromhidrosis also reported statistically significant decreases in axillary odor with treatment (P<0.001).90 Adverse transient events associated with this treatment included site-related redness, swelling, and discomfort, while a longer-lasting side effect was abnormal skin sensation. One patient reported arm neuropathy and weakness on the treated side that improved after 6 months.90 In a separate investigation, Suh et al92 describe a case of median and ulnar neuropathy after microwave device treatment for axillary HH that resolved after 12 months.

Ultrasound technology

Employing another method to selectively target glandular tissue in the treatment of hyper HH hidrosis, Nestor and Park93 examined the use of a device that had been FDA approved for noninvasive eyebrow and neck lifts in two prospective randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled studies. Using high-intensity microfocused ultrasound coupled with visualization (MFU-V), the practitioner creates small thermal injuries within the dermis. Visualization allows the operator to ensure localization at the desired treatment region and avoidance of sensitive anatomic structures such as large blood vessels.93 (For a more extensive discussion on the technology, we refer the reader to White et al’s94 original investigation using cadaveric tissue). Inclusion criteria for the studies required ≥50 mg per 5-minute period of axillary sweat secretion (per axillae) and an HDSS score of 3 or 4. In the first study, gravimetric measurements were obtained to evaluate for objective improvement, where at least a 50% decrease in spontaneous axillary hidrosis measured on the 120th day was considered a positive response. The evaluators report that more than half of the patients in the first study demonstrated a positive response.93 The second study evaluated both subjective improvement of HH where a drop in HDSS scores from 3 or 4 to 1 or 2 was considered a positive response, as well as objective improvement as determined by gravimetric measurement. For this study, 67% of patients in the MFU-V group demonstrated a positive response according to the HDSS parameters, whereas none demonstrated response in the sham group (P<0.005).93 Compared with the sham group, the MFU-V group also demonstrated statistically significant improvement according to gravimetric measurement (83% vs 0%, P<0.0001).93 Nestor and Park93 also observed a significant relationship between changes in HDSS and percent change in gravimetric analysis (P=0.005) that was independent of time.

Conclusion

A wide array of therapies are available for the treatment of primary HH, ranging from topical to systemic medications, intradermal injections, to minimally versus fully invasive surgery. Some therapies carry significantly greater risks of adverse events than others. Often, the patient and physician are required to explore the options by trial and error. While the efficacy of oxybutynin systemic therapy has been demonstrated in multiple studies,21–26 patients may find the anticholinergic side effects unacceptable.21,26 Btx injections are effective and should be considered in those patients who have failed topical and systemic therapies.1,11,20,27,29,35–38,40,41 New forms of administration of Btx may make this option more palatable for patients weary of injections,76–78 especially for those seeking treatment for axillary HH. LC successfully relieves HH and, by virtue of the suctioning mechanism, may be superior to curettage alone for lasting results.14,49,52 Sympathotomy and sympathectomy are the most invasive procedures for HH, but for those patients whose daily lives are disrupted by HH, despite trials of other therapeutic options, sympathetic chain disruption may present an appealing opportunity for treatment.19,57,63,70–73 Certainly, the risk of CH should be discussed thoroughly with patients considering this intervention.58,62,63 In order to limit the risk of CH and chest wall pain, paresthesias, and scars,74,75 experimentation with altering the techniques and levels disrupted during sympathotomy/sympathectomy continues.57,58,65–72 Preliminary investigations of new technologies (laser, microwave, and ultrasound) for less invasive eccrine gland disruption are promising.82,84–86,90–94 Ultimately, the determination of which modality to pursue should be individualized to each particular patient, carefully considering the effects of HH on QOL while weighing the potential benefits and adverse events of the proposed treatment.