INTRODUCTION:
Ramsay-Hunt syndrome is a disease caused by reactivation of latent
varicella zoster virus in the geniculate ganglia. It involves facial
nerve paralysis and it is usually associated with a rash on the auricle
and/or external
ear [1]. Sometimes
the blisters are not very noticeable and can be overlooked by the
inspector. Other accompanying symptoms may be ache and fullness of the
ear (78%), vertigo/dizziness (51%), hearing loss (45%), nausea,
vomiting, tinnitus and
hyperacusia [2].
The diagnosis is mainly based on the history, clinical findings and
neurological examination. Polymerase chain reaction assays may be useful
by detecting DNA of the virus in exudates from ear scraping or
cerebrospinal fluid
(CSF) [3].
It represents 7% of all peripheral facial paralysis and recovery rates
are lower in this
group [4,5].
Early treatment with a combination of acyclovir and prednisone is
reported to be
effective [6-8].