[Botulinum Toxin - New Developments in Ophthalmology].

Botulinum toxin is recognised as the gold standard for the treatment of essential blepharospasm and hemifacial spasm, which is similar in effect in synkinesis after facial nerve palsy. The injection intervals can be adjusted according to the patients' needs and be shortened for up to six weeks in cases of eyelid cramping. Newer indications for the use of botulinum toxin in ophthalmology include eyelid retraction in Graves' disease, induction of protective ptosis and treatment of crocodile tears syndrome after facial nerve palsy. In future, botulinum toxin may be used in depression (facial feedback), facial injuries and for protection of facial glands against irradiation injury.