Abstract

Sidharth P. S., Aparnna B. Asokan, Dr. Amal* and Prof. Dr. Shaiju S. Dharan

ABSTRACT

Ramsay Hunt Syndrome (RHS) is a rare condition, which occurs as a severe complication of varicella-zoster virus (VZV) reactivation in the geniculate ganglion. It is mainly characterized by facial nerve paralysis with an erythematous vesicular rash on the ear and ipsilateral anterior two third of the tongue and soft palate. Ramsay Hunt Syndrome is still mostly diagnosed by the patient’s history and neurological examination. Diagnosis of Ramsay Hunt Syndrome is done by clinical examination, which is based on the unilateral facial paralysis, and vesicular lesions in the ipsilateral ear, hard palate, or anterior ? of the tongue. The final component of the RHS is either otalgia or vertigo. Various complications like post-herpetic neuralgia, secondary infection with bacteria, corneal ulcers, hearing loss, and permanent facial paralysis can occur. The main stay of treatment includes antivirals with corticosteroid agents. It has been demonstrated that acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir shorten the duration of acute Herpes Zoster symptoms and the resulting long-term damage. As adjuvant therapy, RHS is also managed with the use of eye patches, taping the eyes shut, artificial tears, and oral analgesics. In patients with Herpes Zoster symptoms, a strong index of suspicion and diligent follow-up are necessary. Early use of corticosteroids and antivirals has been demonstrated to drastically enhance patient outcomes. Helicobacter Pylori (H.Pylori) infection, is one of the common bacterial infections which is isolated from the oral cavity, dental plaques, and saliva.