A behavioural treatment of blepharospasm: two case reports

Abstract

Blepharospasm is a distressing condition, characterized by a repetitive and spasmodic closing of the eyes, and/or an inability to open the eyes after blinking. The aetiology of the disorder remains obscure. The available literature tends towards viewing the condition as arising from or associated with neuropathological processes. Two cases of blepharospasm are presented here. Both were managed along purely behavioural lines, using massed practice and relaxation techniques. The results obtained strongly suggest a learning model, rather than a neuropathological model may best explain the condition. Possible mechanisms for the development and maintenance of blepharospasm are discussed.