Pathology · patient case question
What is the origin of the lesion?
Patient case: Rash in the ear (Ramsay Hunt syndrome)
Scenario: A patient with a RASH IN THE EAR. (The case does not name the condition — it is Ramsay Hunt syndrome.)
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. Viral
- A. Fungal infection does not produce dermatomal vesicular eruption with facial palsy.
- B. There is no bacterial aetiology; the vesicular rash and cranial neuropathy are characteristic of zoster.
- C. Correct. Ramsay Hunt syndrome is caused by reactivation of the VARICELLA-ZOSTER VIRUS. The clinical triad is ipsilateral facial paralysis, otalgia, and a vesicular rash on the auricle and external auditory canal.
- D. Corticosteroids are used as ADJUNCTIVE therapy to reduce nerve oedema, but the cause is infectious rather than autoimmune.