Abstract
Ramsay-Hunt syndrome results from reactivation of latent varicella-zoster virus and subsequent spread to the seventh (and sometimes eighth) cranial nerve. The syndrome results in unilateral painful vesicular lesions on the external ear with ipsilateral facial weakness or paralysis. Other symptoms may include generalized malaise, altered taste, lacrimation, paroxysmal neuralgic ear pain, and hearing abnormalities. Due to its rare occurrence in young children and the inconsistent co-occurrence of pathognomonic vesicles and peripheral facial paralysis, diagnosis may be delayed or missed. As a result, many affected pediatric patients do not receive appropriate therapy with high-dose corticosteroids in combination with acyclovir.