J Dent Anesth Pain Med.  2018 Dec;18(6):333-337. 10.17245/jdapm.2018.18.6.333.

Ramsay Hunt syndrome

• Jeon Y
• Lee H

• KMID: 2430210
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.17245/jdapm.2018.18.6.333

Abstract

Ramsay Hunt syndrome is a type of acute herpes zoster, which occurs by reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus at the geniculate ganglion. Clinical presentation of Ramsay Hunt syndrome includes a vesicular rash on the ear (herpes zoster oticus) or in the oral mucosa accompanied by acute peripheral facial nerve paralysis. Other cranial nerves such as V, IX, XI, and XII are often involved. Additional variability of the clinical picture of Ramsay Hunt syndrome is produced by varying patterns of skin involvement explained by individual anastomoses between cranial and cervical nerves. Combination treatment containing anti-viral agents and steroids is recommended for the treatment of Ramsay Hunt syndrome. Additionally, early diagnosis of Ramsay Hunt syndrome is a crucial factor to improve damaged nerves in Ramsay Hunt syndrome, which initiates treatment as soon as possible.

Keyword

Facial Paralysis; Herpes Zoster; Herpes Zoster Oticus; Ramsay Hunt Syndrome

MeSH Terms

Cranial Nerves
Ear
Early Diagnosis
Exanthema
Facial Nerve
Facial Paralysis
Geniculate Ganglion
Herpes Zoster
Herpes Zoster Oticus*
Herpesvirus 3, Human
Mouth Mucosa
Paralysis
Skin
Steroids
Steroids

Figure

• 

  Fig. 1 Ramsay Hunt syndrome. A. Facial palsy of the left side with inability to close the eye. B. Vesicles on the left anterior two-thirds of the tongue. Consent for publication of this photography was obtained from the patient.

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