Related Experiment Videos
Ramsay Hunt syndrome presenting as a cranial polyneuropathy
D S Asnis1, L Micic, D Giaccio
1Department of Internal Medicine, Flushing Hospital Medical Center, New York 11355, USA.
Cutis
|June 1, 1996
Summary
Ramsay Hunt syndrome, a facial nerve herpes zoster infection, can rarely affect other cranial nerves. This case highlights Ramsay Hunt syndrome involving the V, VII, and VIII cranial nerves.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Otolaryngology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Ramsay Hunt syndrome (RHS) is caused by the varicella-zoster virus reactivation.
- It typically involves the facial nerve (VII cranial nerve).
- Cranial nerve involvement beyond the VII nerve is uncommon.
Observation:
- This report details a rare case of Ramsay Hunt syndrome.
- The patient presented with involvement of the trigeminal (V), facial (VII), and vestibulocochlear (VIII) cranial nerves.
- This presentation deviates from the more common isolated facial nerve or facial and vestibulocochlear nerve involvement.
Findings:
- The case confirms that Ramsay Hunt syndrome can manifest with multi-cranial nerve palsies.
- Specifically, involvement of the V, VII, and VIII cranial nerves was observed.
- This underscores the variable neurological sequelae of varicella-zoster virus reactivation.
Implications:
- Expanded cranial nerve involvement in RHS may necessitate broader diagnostic considerations.
- Understanding these rare presentations is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management.
- This case contributes to the literature on the spectrum of neurological complications associated with herpes zoster oticus.