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Herpes zoster oticus: treatment with acyclovir
1Department of Otolaryngology, Lady Davis Carmel Hospital, Haifa, Israel.
The Annals of Otology, Rhinology, and Laryngology
|February 1, 1992
Summary
Acyclovir treatment for herpes zoster oticus shows promise for facial paralysis recovery. Intravenous and oral acyclovir improved outcomes in five patients, suggesting its therapeutic potential for this condition.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Herpes zoster oticus, commonly known as Ramsay Hunt syndrome, frequently causes facial paralysis.
- Facial paralysis associated with this condition often has a poor prognosis and low recovery rate.
- Antiviral therapies are explored to improve outcomes in affected patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of acyclovir in treating facial paralysis caused by herpes zoster oticus.
- To assess the recovery rates of patients with herpes zoster oticus following acyclovir administration.
Main Methods:
- Five patients diagnosed with herpes zoster oticus were treated with intravenous acyclovir.
- Three of these patients subsequently received oral acyclovir therapy.
- Patient recovery was monitored over a follow-up period ranging from 1 to 24 months.
Main Results:
- One patient achieved Grade I recovery (minimal dysfunction).
- Three patients experienced Grade II recovery (moderate dysfunction).
- One patient attained Grade III recovery (severe dysfunction).
Conclusions:
- Acyclovir demonstrates encouraging results in improving facial nerve function in herpes zoster oticus patients.
- The observed recovery rates suggest that acyclovir is a viable therapeutic option for managing herpes zoster oticus.
- Further research may support the routine use of acyclovir in clinical practice for this condition.