In Ramsay Hunt syndrome, vesicular eruptions classically occur in the:
- A External auditory canal and pinna (concha) with ipsilateral lower motor neuron facial palsy ✓
- B Posterior auricular region with ipsilateral upper motor neuron facial sparing
- C Hard palate with associated trigeminal neuralgia
- D Facial skin in V2 distribution with ophthalmic zoster
Correct answer: A. External auditory canal and pinna (concha) with ipsilateral lower motor neuron facial palsy
Explanation
Ramsay Hunt syndrome (herpes zoster oticus) results from reactivation of varicella-zoster virus in the geniculate ganglion of the facial nerve (CN VII). The classic triad is ipsilateral lower motor neuron facial palsy, otalgia and herpetic vesicles in the external auditory canal, concha, pinna and/or soft palate. Sensorineural hearing loss and vertigo may accompany it. The LMN pattern (including forehead sparing absent — all branches affected) distinguishes it from central facial palsy.
Reference: Dhingra Diseases of Ear, Nose and Throat, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.