Benign Essential Blepharospasm (BEB) is a neurological disorder that causes spasms, or twitching, of the eyelid. It is a form of dystonia, a movement disorder in which muscle contractions cause twitching or repetitive movements.
BEB gathered with the Tanzania Association of Children’s Homes (UMAWATA) for a national meeting focused on a shared goal: strengthening the care and protection of vulnerable children across the country.
Blepharospasm, also known as benign essential blepharospasm (BEB), is a neurologic disorder characterized by repetitive and involuntary contractions of the eyelid muscles, including the orbicularis oculi muscle, which is responsible for eyelid closure, blinking, and squinting.
The blepharospasm referred to here is officially called benign essential blepharospasm (BEB) to distinguish it from the less serious secondary blinking disorders.
Benign essential blepharospasm (BEB), a form of focal dystonia, is a disorder of involuntary spasms involving the eyelid protractor muscles.
BEB is a clinical diagnosis and must be distinguished from secondary blepharospasm, which can occur in association with a syndrome, movement disorder, or a specific ocular disease such as keratopathy or ocular irritation.
BEB virtually always affects both eyes (bilateral). The frequency of muscle spasms and contractions may increase causing involuntary narrowing of the opening between the eyelids or closure of the eyelids.
BEB is bilateral and should not be confused with hemifacial spasm, which is unilateral. Although the latter often begins with twitching of the eyelid, it can progress and affect the entire ipsilateral facial musculature.
Benign Essential Blepharospasm (BEB) is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary spasms of the eyelid muscles. This condition can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life, making it essential to understand its symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and available treatments.