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Ramsay Hunt syndrome, also known as herpes zoster of the ear, is an infection of the facial and auditory nerve that causes facial paralysis, hearing problems, vertigo and the appearance of red spots and blisters in the ear region.
This disease is caused by the herpes zoster virus, which causes chickenpox, which is asleep in a facial nerve ganglion and which in immunosuppressed individuals, diabetics, children or the elderly can reactivate.
Ramsay Hunt Syndrome is not contagious, however, the herpes zoster virus that can be found in the blisters present near the ear, can be transmitted to other people and cause chickenpox in individuals who have not had the infection before. Learn how to identify the symptoms of chicken pox.
What symptoms
Symptoms of Ramsay Hunt Syndrome can be:
- Facial paralysis;
- Severe ear pain;
- Vertigo;
- Pain and head;
- Difficulty speaking;
- Fever;
- Dry eyes;
- Changes in taste.
At the beginning of the disease manifestation, small liquid-filled bubbles form in the external ear and in the ear canal, which can also form on the tongue and / or the roof of the mouth. Hearing loss can be permanent, and vertigo can last from a few days to several weeks.
Possible causes
Ramsay Hunt Syndrome is caused by the herpes zoster virus, which causes chickenpox and shingles, which is asleep in a ganglion of the facial nerve.
The risk of developing this disease is greater in immunosuppressed individuals, diabetics, children or the elderly, who have suffered from chickenpox.
What is the diagnosis
The diagnosis of Ramsay Hunt Syndrome is made based on the symptoms presented by the patient, together with the ear exam. Other tests, such as the Schirmer test, to assess tearing, or gustometry test, to assess taste, can also be performed. Some laboratory tests, such as PCR, can also be done to detect the presence of the virus.
The differential diagnosis of this syndrome is made with diseases such as Bell's palsy, post-herpetic neuralgia or trigeminal neuralgia.
How the treatment is done
The treatment of Ramsay Hunt Syndrome is made with antiviral drugs, such as acyclovir or fanciclovir, and corticosteroids, such as prednisone, for example.
In addition, the doctor may also recommend the use of analgesic drugs, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and anticonvulsants, to relieve pain, and antihistamines to reduce the symptoms of vertigo and lubricating eye drops to prevent dry eyes, if the person has difficulty closing the eye.
Surgical intervention can be important when there is compression of the facial nerve, which can relieve paralysis. Speech therapy helps to minimize the effects of infection on hearing and paralysis of facial muscles.
Created by: Tua Saúde Editorial Team
Bibliography>
- C J Sweeney, D H Gilden. Ramsay Hunt syndrome. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry. Vol.71. 2.ed; 149-154, 2001