Ramsay Hunt syndrome type II is the reactivation syndrome of herpes zoster in the geniculate ganglion. It has variable presentation which may include Bell's palsy, deafness, vertigo, and pain. Xtra Edge Ramsay Hunt syndrome type I, also called Ramsay Hunt cerebellar syndrome, is a rare form of cerebellar degeneration which involves myoclonic epilepsy, progressive ataxia, tremor, and a dementing process.[SUP][/SUP][SUP][/SUP] Ramsay Hunt syndrome type III is a less commonly referenced condition, an occupationally induced neuropathy of the deep palmar branch of the ulnar nerve. It is also called Hunt's disease or Artisan's palsy
A classic case based on our Spot Diagnosis [FONT=&] A 43-year-old woman who is HIV positive presents with painful vesicles of the right ear canal and eardrum. Physical examination reveals right facial paralysis, hyperacusia, and unilateral loss of taste. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?[/FONT] A. Sweet syndrome B. Bullous myringitis C. Sturge-Weber disease D. Ramsay Hunt syndrome E. Behçet syndrome [FONT=&]EXPLANATION: [/FONT] Ramsay Hunt syndrome is involvement of the geniculate ganglion by herpes zoster. Patients may present with facial paresis, hyperacusia, unilateral loss of taste, reduced tear formation, reduced salivation, pain in the ear, and vesicles in the ear canal and eardrum. Bullous myringitis is an inflammation of the tympanic membrane due to the presence of vesicles; patients complain of earache, hearing loss, and bloody discharge. It occurs in several viral and bacterial infections (ie, Mycoplasma pneumoniae). Sturge-Weber disease is characterized by a port-wine nevus on the scalp and vascular abnormalities that may lead to seizures and cerebellar calcifications; examination of the ear may reveal auricle ecchymoses. Sweet syndrome is characterized by dark red nodules that are often ulcerated, located over the hands, face, arms, and legs; it is seen in patients with leukemias or other proliferative disorders. [FONT=&]Behçet syndrome is characterized by the presence of aphthous ulcers of the mouth and genitalia; the ulcers are associated with arthritis, uveitis, and neurological disorders. [/FONT] [FONT=&]The answer is D.[/FONT]
For a list of differentials on Ramsay Hunt Syndrome pls. refer to this post http://forum.facmedicine.com/spot-diagnosis/11958-spot-diagnosis.html#post35420 (-:
