In benign essential blepharospasm, uncontrolled muscle contractions cause the eyelids to close involuntarily.
At times the eyes may remain closed for several hours.
When the uncontrolled movements spread to these areas, the condition is sometimes referred to asMeige syndrome.
Verywell / JR Bee
Causes
The cause of benign essential blepharospasm is unknown.
It is not uncommon for people with no family history or known risk factors to develop the condition.
Overall, benign essential blepharospasm likely develops due to a combination of many factors.
Benign essential blepharospasm is not a common condition, occurring in approximately20,000 to 50,000 peoplein the U.S. each year.
Benign essential blepharospasm usually occurs sporadically.
However, some cases have been seen in families.
In some cases, the medications used to treatParkinson’smay cause a person to develop symptoms of blepharospasm.
Diagnosis
There is no specific marker that can be tested for when diagnosing benign essential blepharospasm.
There are currently no imaging or lab tests that can be used to diagnose the condition.
Treatment
The symptoms of benign essential blepharospasm can greatly disrupt a person’s life.
While there is no cure for the condition, there are several options for treatment.
Benzodiazepines, such as Klonopin or Ativan,antihistamines, and anticonvulsants may also be offered.
Many medical professionals will recommend Botox injections as a first-line treatment for patients with benign essential blepharospasm.
Not every person with benign essential blepharospasm will respond well to medications or treatment with Botox injections.
In some cases, the condition is severe enough that a doctor may suggest surgery.
Due to these risks, the surgery is rarely used today.
Deep brain stimulationis also being investigated as a possible treatment for benign essential blepharospasm.
When severe, the condition can cause a person to become functionally blind.
The condition is most commonly seen in middle-aged women.
Most people who get benign essential blepharospasm don’t have a family history or any known risk factors.
American Academy of Ophthalmology.Blepharospasm.
National Institutes of Health.Benign essential blepharospasm.
2020;12(4):269. doi:10.3390/toxins12040269
American Association of Neuromuscular & Electrodiagnostic Medicine.Blepharospasm.
U.S. National Library of Medicine.Benign essential blepharospasm.
NORD (National Organization for Rare Disorders).Benign essential blepharospasm.
