Benign essential blepharospasm

Benign essential blepharospasm is a condition characterized by abnormal blinking or spasms of the eyelids. This condition is a type of dystonia, which is a group of movement disorders that involve uncontrolled tensing of the muscles (muscle contractions), rhythmic shaking (tremors), and other involuntary movements. Benign essential blepharospasm is different from the common and temporary eyelid twitching that can be caused by fatigue, stress, or caffeine.

The signs and symptoms of benign essential blepharospasm usually appear in mid- to late adulthood and gradually worsen. The first signs and symptoms of the condition include an increased frequency of blinking; dry eyes; and eye irritation that is aggravated by wind, air pollution, sunlight, and other irritants. These signs and symptoms may begin in one eye, but they ultimately affect both eyes. As the condition progresses, spasms in the muscles that surround the eyes cause involuntary blinking or squinting. Over time, affected individuals find it increasingly difficult to keep their eyes open, which can severely impair their vision.

In some people with benign essential blepharospasm, the symptoms of dystonia spread beyond the eyes to affect other facial muscles. When people with benign essential blepharospasm also experience involuntary muscle spasms that affect the tongue and jaw (oromandibular dystonia), the combination of signs and symptoms is known as Meige syndrome.

Other names

Essential blepharospasm; Eyelid twitching; Primary blepharospasm; Spasm of eyelids

Inheritance pattern

Autosomal dominant

Related genes

TOR1A; DRD5

Source: MedlinePlus Genetics, U.S. National Library of Medicine.