Ramsay Hunt syndrome

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Ramsay Hunt syndrome is a neurologic disorder caused by a virus (varicella zoster) that infects certain nerves in the head.

Hunt's syndrome; Herpes oticus

The varicella zoster virus causes both Ramsay Hunt syndrome and another common cause of facial weakness, Bell's palsy (in which there is no rash).

This virus is within the family of human herpes viruses, which cause fever sores on the mouth and genital herpes. The varicella zoster virus also causes shingles and chickenpox.

In those with Ramsay Hunt syndrome, the virus is believed to infect the facial nerve near the inner ear. This results in irritation and swelling.

Review Date: 09/25/2006
Reviewed By: Kenneth Gross, M.D., Neurology, North Miami, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.