Prognosis
The majority of patients presenting with Ramsay Hunt syndrome will recover their facial movement at least partially. Patients typically see improvement in facial movement within a few weeks to months of symptom onset. However, changes in facial symmetry and function can continue for up to a year before a patient’s exam stabilizes. Recurrent Ramsay Hunt syndrome is exceedingly rare.[2]
In general, patients with partial paresis have a better recovery than those with complete paralysis. In one study, 93% to 98% of patients with Bell's palsy presenting with partial paresis had a spontaneous complete recovery, whereas those with complete paralysis, ages >60 years, immunocompromised, or pregnant, had a poorer prognosis.[37] Studies have shown that Ramsay Hunt syndrome has a less favorable recovery pathway than Bell’s palsy.[37][38]
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