From the Guidelines
Ramsay Hunt syndrome is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, characterized by severe otalgia, facial paralysis or paresis, loss of taste on the anterior two-thirds of the tongue, and decreased lacrimation on the involved side, and should be managed with prompt systemic antiviral therapy and systemic steroids. The syndrome typically presents with vesicles on the external ear canal and posterior surface of the auricle, in addition to the aforementioned symptoms 1. Key aspects of the condition include:
- Severe otalgia
- Facial paralysis or paresis
- Loss of taste on the anterior two-thirds of the tongue
- Decreased lacrimation on the involved side
- Vesicles on the external ear canal and posterior surface of the auricle Management of Ramsay Hunt syndrome involves:
- Prompt systemic antiviral therapy
- Systemic steroids
- Pain management with analgesics It is essential to start treatment as soon as possible, ideally within 72 hours of symptom onset, to improve outcomes 1. Recovery time varies from weeks to months, with some patients experiencing permanent facial weakness or hearing issues, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and proper management.