Ramsay Hunt Syndrome (herpes zoster octicus)

Ramsay Hunt syndrome (herpes zoster oticus) is caused by the shingles infection affecting the facial nerve near one of your ear.

When shingles infection involves the facial nerve of one side near the ear, causing ramsay hunt syndrome (herpes zoster octicus) which have following signs and symptoms at clinical presentation:

Ramsay Hunt Syndrome (Clinical presentation)

• painful shingles rash
• facial paralysis
• hearing loss in the affected ear

Ramsay hunt syndrome usually occurs after the episode of chikenpox. Herpes zoster octicus is caused by the same virus which causes chicken pox.

After chicken pox heals, the virus remains in the nerves in dormant condition and may reactivate years later affecting the patients facial nerve, resulting in Ramsay Hunt Syndrome.

Treatment of Ramsay Hunt Syndrome

• High dose corticosteroids
• high dose antivirals

Prompt treatment reduces risks of complication.

Complications of Ramsay Hunt Syndrome (herpes zoster octicus)

Following complications can occur as a result of ramsay hunt syndrome:

• Facial muscle weakness
• deafness