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Ency. home > Disease > R > Ramsay Hunt syndrome

Ramsay Hunt syndrome   

Overview | Symptoms | Treatment | Prevention

Alternative names:

Hunt's syndrome

Definition:

Ramsay Hunt syndrome is a disorder occurring when herpes zoster lesions affect the nerves of the ear causing facial paralysis and a rash either in the ear, tongue or hard palate.

Causes and Risks

Ramsay Hunt syndrome is a common cause of unilateral facial paralysis (paralysis on one side of the face). It may be associated with the Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV), a herpetic virus which causes chiken pox.

The virus is believed to infect the facial nerve in the auditory canal, which results in inflammation and swelling. The severity of the inflammation determines the extent of the symptoms and recovery.

Ency. home > Disease > R > Ramsay Hunt syndrome

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