Ramsay Hunt Syndrome: An Introduction, Signs and Symptoms, and Treatment

Abstract

Ramsay Hunt syndrome is the complication of the virus varicella-zoster and the infection caused by it, which shows apparent geniculate ganglion involvement. This article discusses the etiology, epidemiology, and pathology of Ramsay Hunt syndrome. Clinically it may be presented as a vesicular rash on the ear or even in the mouth, pain in the ear, and facial paralysis. Some other rare symptoms may also be present, which are also discussed in this article. Skin involvement is also seen in some cases as patterns due to anastomoses between cervical and cranial nerves. This article provides an overview of how the varicella-zoster virus causes facial paralysis and other neurological symptoms. Knowing about this condition and its clinical features is essential to make an early diagnosis and, thus, provide a good prognosis. A good prognosis is required to reduce the nerve damage, prevent further complications, and start an early therapy of acyclovir and corticosteroid. This review also presents a clinical picture of the disease and its complications. The incidence of Ramsay Hunt syndrome has gradually decreased over time because of the development of the varicella-zoster vaccine and better health facilities. The paper also talks about how the diagnosis of Ramsay Hunt syndrome is made and the various treatment options available. Facial paralysis in Ramsay Hunt syndrome presents differently than Bell's Palsy. If not treated for too long, it may cause permanent muscle weakness and may also cause a loss of hearing. It may be confused with simple herpes simplex virus outbreaks or contact dermatitis.

Association between Serum Varicella-Zoster Virus IgM and IgG and Prognosis of Ramsay Hunt Syndrome

“…In this study, we retrospectively analyzed the medical records of 105 patients with RHS who were admitted to the Department of Otorhinolaryngology at Kyung Hee University Hospital (Seoul, South Korea) and underwent high-dose steroid therapy from 2015 to 2022 (8 years). The diagnostic criteria for RHS were as follows: (1) acute or subacute peripheral facial palsy; (2) vesicular rash in the pattern of the external ear, external auditory canal, or oropharynx; and (3) absence of any brainstem or cerebellar lesions on magnetic resonance imaging [7]. Patients with facial palsy caused by a tumor in the brain, trauma, or inflammatory ear diseases were excluded from the study.…”

Ramsay-Hunt-Syndrome Associated with Unilateral Parotitis Following COVID-19 Vaccine

“…The Ramsay-Hunt-Syndrome (RHS) is a clinical diagnosis and classically recognized as a triad of vesicles around the ear or auditory canal, otalgia, and ipsilateral facial paralysis (9). RHS induced by VZV mostly responds to treatment with valacyclovir and steroids, also physiotherapy could help those who suffer from synkinesis in the long term (9,10). The presentation of RHS following COVID-19 vaccination has been rarely reported in the literature.…”

Homeopathic Treatment of Ramsay Hunt Syndrome: A Case Report

“…RHS is characterized by severe pain in the ear, facial weakness or paralysis, and vesicular eruptions on the external ear canal or tympanic membrane [1, 2]. RHS can affect both immunocompetent and immunocompromised patients and has an annual prevalence of roughly 5 per 100,000 persons [1], with a similar trend in India [3]. The condition accounts for 16% of all causes of unilateral facial palsies in children and 18% in adults.…”