Ramsay hunt syndrome: case report

Abstract

Ramsay-Hunt Syndrome is an uncommon disease caused by the reactivation of latent Varicella zoster virus in the geniculate ganglion. It is characterized with a herpes zoster oticus associated with an acute peripheral facial nerve paralysis, and possible other cranial nerve lesions. We describe the case of a 27-year-old man who presented with severe ear pain for two days, with vesicular eruptions on the external ear and ipsilateral peripheric facial paralysis. He was treated with the association of intravenous steroids and acyclovir for 7 days. The evolution showed gratifying results. The one-year follow-up showed no relapse of the syndrome. The purpose of this report is to highlight the importance of a thorough clinical examination and early treatment of the Ramsay-Hunt syndrome.

Keywords

• ramsay hunt syndrome
• varicella-zoster virus
• facial paralysis
• herpes zoster oticus