Meningitis and Ramsay-Hunt syndrome in a 17-year old girl

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Ramsay Hunt syndrome (RHS) is a rare manifestation of varicella-zoster virus (VZV) reactivation in geniculate ganglion. It usually manifests with a characteristic triad of symptoms including ipsilateral ear pain, vesicles in the external auditory canal, and facial nerve palsy. CASE: We present a case report showing RHS additionally manifested by meningitis and involvement of VIII cranial nerve. Clinical course was complicated by acute kidney injury induced by acyclovir therapy. RESULTS: Despite the involvement of the geniculate ganglion and vestibulocochlear nerve in the course of herpes zoster, and the occurrence of acute kidney injury, the patient fully recovered. CONCLUSIONS: A complete recovery of cranial nerves VII and VIII in the course of RHS can be achieved.