The usefulness of botulinum toxin injections in oncology – clinical and laboratory perspectives

Abstract

The use of botulinum toxins in various oncological conditions brings long-term results in the treatment of chronic pain without burdening internal organs, as is the case with the use of opioids. Numerous reports indicate a possible apoptotic effect achieved in vitro and in vivo. Most literature data suggest that using botulinum toxins to support oncological treatment gives positive results, and in most cases, it is free of side effects. The article reviews the literature on the use of botulinum toxins in experiments carried out on cancer cell lines and their impact on cancer at the level of reactions occurring at the cellular level. This literature review presents a collection of the most important reports on using various types of botulinum toxins in supporting oncological therapies, considering their analgesic and apoptotic effects. The work presents comprehensive research on large groups of patients, the most important case reports, and clinical trials. The collected information seems to confirm that using botulinum toxins creates an opportunity to support oncological therapies with comprehensive benefits for the patient, improving the quality of life and anticancer effect.