Prognosis of the Ramsay Hunt syndrome

Thirty-six cases of herpes zoster complicated by facial paralysis (the Ramsay Hunt syndrome) seen over 10 years were reviewed to determine the subjective degree of recovery (ascertained by questionnaire) and residual disability (ascertained by re-examination). Eighteen patients made a full recovery, most within three months; 14 patients were left with only mild residual signs. In only four patients was the final result regarded as unsatisfactory. Outcome was not adversely influenced by age. The facial paralysis of the Ramsay Hunt syndrome thus carries a generally favourable prognosis.