MedTerms Medical Dictionary

Ramsay Hunt syndrome: A herpes virus infection of the geniculate nerve ganglion thast causes paralysis of the facial muscles on the same side of the face as the infection. It is usually associated with a rash (vesicles or tiny water- filled bumps in the skin) in or around the ear, and sometimes on the roof of the mouth. Ramsey Hunt syndrome is more commonly more painful than Bell's palsy and the prognosis for Ramsey Hunt syndrome is not as good as that for Bell's palsy. There is good clinical evidence to suggest that treatment with steroids and antiviral agents (like acyclovir) improve recovery and lessen pain. The Ramsay Hunt syndrome is named for the American neurologist James Ramsay Hunt (1872-1937). (Two common errors in writing his name are to spell "Ramsay" as "Ramsey" and to put a hyphen between the "Ramsay" and the "Hunt".)

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Find a medical definition by using the A-Z listing (select a letter)

Copyright © 1996-2003 MedicineNet, Inc. All rights reserved.
MedicineNet, Inc. does not endorse any of the services or products offered on this page.

Information in the MedTerms Medical Dictionary is provided for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. You should not use this information for diagnosing or treating a medical or health condition. You should carefully read all product packaging. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, promptly contact your professional healthcare provider.

Use the A-Z listing (select a letter) to find a definition

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z