Ramsay Hunt syndrome with viral meningitis

Abstract

Ramsay Hunt syndrome (RHS) is an infection with the Varicella Zoster virus in the geniculate ganglion of the facial nerve. The syndrome consists of a triad of peripheral facial nerve palsy, ear pain and concurrent zoster rash in the ear canal. However, vesicles in the mouth can be seen. A rare complication of RHS is viral meningitis. This is a case report of a patient with orally manifested RHS and concurrent asymptomatic viral meningitis. This case aims to raise awareness of RHS with atypical presentation and concurrent viral meningitis and, thereby, the importance of a thorough neurological examination.