[Palmar and axillary hyperhidrosis in children: endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy using clips for an underestimated problem]. / Hyperhidrosis palmaris en axillaris bij kinderen.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Palmar and axillary hyperhidrosis are defined as perspiration exceeding the body's 'normal' physiological need for thermal regulation. This condition affects about 1% of adolescents and children and may lead to psychosocial problems and poor school performance. CASE DESCRIPTION We carried out an endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS) with clips in a 14-year-old girl and a 16-year-old girl who suffered from debilitating palmar and axillary hyperhidrosis. They were able to quickly resume their general daily activities and both were free of symptoms during an outpatient visit after 6 weeks. CONCLUSION: ETS using clips is a safe, relatively simple and effective technique, which may provide a permanent solution. ETS can be an option in case of therapy-resistant debilitating hyperhidrosis. This surgical procedure should be carefully considered, possible causes should be excluded and ETS should not be offered as the first treatment option for children.