Ramsay Hunt Syndrome

Ramsay Hunt syndrome is a complication that results from the spread of the varicella-zoster virus to the facial nerves. The varicella-zoster virus causes shingles in people who have had chickenpox. Characteristics of Ramsay Hunt syndrome include intense ear pain; a rash around the ear, mouth, face, neck, and scalp; and paralysis of facial nerves. Other symptoms may include hearing loss, vertigo, and taste loss in the tongue. When treatment is needed, medications such as antiviral drugs or corticosteroids may be prescribed.

 

What Is Ramsay Hunt Syndrome?

Ramsay Hunt syndrome, also called herpes zoster oticus or Ramsay Hunt syndrome type II, is a common complication of shingles. Shingles is an infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is the virus that causes chickenpox. Shingles occurs in people who have had chickenpox and represents a reactivation of the dormant varicella-zoster virus.
 
Ramsay Hunt syndrome should not be confused with what was formerly known as Ramsay Hunt syndrome I, a collection of rare, degenerative, neurological disorders characterized by epilepsy, cognitive impairment, myoclonus, and progressive ataxia. That condition is now referred to as dyssynergia cerebellaris myoclonica.
 

Symptoms of Ramsay Hunt Syndrome

Ramsay Hunt syndrome, which is caused by the spread of the varicella-zoster virus to facial nerves, is characterized by:
 
  • Intense ear pain
  • A rash around the ear, mouth, face, neck, and scalp
  • Paralysis of facial nerves.
     
Other symptoms of Ramsay Hunt syndrome may include:
 
  • Vertigo (abnormal sensation of movement)
  • Hearing loss
  • Tinnitus (abnormal sounds)
  • Taste loss in the tongue
  • Dry mouth and eyes.
     
(Ramsay Hunt Syndrome Continued: Page 2)
Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD