Essential blepharospasm, benign

Benign essential blepharospasm (BEB) is a dystonia characterized by involuntary sustained (tonic) and spasmodic (rapid or clonic) repetitive contractions involving the orbicularis oculi, procerus, and corrugator musculature (Figure 22-15). When the muscles of facial expression that are innervated by the fecial nerve are similarly involved on only one side of the fece, a hemifacial spastic dystonia occurs. 

Figure 22-15 A patient with benign essential blepharospasm. Note deep furrows, indicating chronicity of disease.

Information on emotional and psychological support can be obtained from the Benign Essential Blepharospasm Research Foundation, Inc., P.O. Box 12468, Beaumont, TX 77726-2468 or at its website (www.blepharospasm.org). 

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