A case report of atypical Ramsay-Hunt Syndrome presented with severe vertigo and vomiting

Abstract

Ramsay-Hunt Syndrome (Herpes zoster oticus) is often characterized by severe ear pain, vesicles on external auditory canal or auricula and peripheral facial paralysis. However, the patient in this case presented to the clinic with dizziness, pain in the ear and vomiting. During the physical examination there was no vesicles and no evidence of skin changes found around the auricula that were typical for Ramsay Hunt syndrome. The patient did not have facial paralysis. If there is an unexpected severe ear pain accompanying vertigo, Ramsay Hunt syndrome should be considered in the differential diagnosis even if there is no rash or facial paralysis.