[Ramsay Hunt syndrome. Effects of the treatment with acyclovir (preliminary study)]

Herpes zoster oticus has a poor prognosis with permanent facial nerve dysfunction. We have studied 11 patients in a total group of 131 facial palsies seen in our service for a 20 month period. Four patients had no treatment. Two were treated with prednisone, and five were infused with acyclovir (10 mg/kg every 8 hours over a 10 day hospitalization period) and prednisone. These treatments were observed for 3 to 6 months. Patients follow up was, acyclovir group, 2 patients have achieved a House grade I, 1 patient grade II, 1 patient grade III and 1 left this treatment because side effects was observed. The other patients, 1 have achieved grade I, 2 patients grade II, 2 patients grade III and 1 patient grade V. The differences and final results are discussed.