Ramsay Hunt Syndrome: A Case Report Underlining the Importance of Early Diagnosis to Prevent Complications

Abstract

Ramsay Hunt Syndrome (RHS) is a rare neurological disorder and a sequelae of Herpes zoster, resulting from the reactivation of the Varicella zoster virus (VZV) in the geniculate ganglion. Patients usually present with acute unilateral peripheral facial nerve paralysis, often accompanied by vesicular eruptions in the external auditory canal or oral mucosa, a hallmark of herpes zoster oticus. Due to its overlapping clinical features, RHS is frequently misdiagnosed as Bell's palsy, a more common cause of facial paralysis seen in primary care settings. This case report underscores the potential for RHS misdiagnosis, in which can lead to delayed initiation of antiviral and corticosteroid therapy, resulting in suboptimal patient outcome. This case emphasizes the importance of early recognition of the condition, which are critical to improving prognosis, reducing complications, and enhancing the quality of life for affected patients.