Objective: To critically appraise the topic, questioning whether administering antiviral medication in case of Ramsay Hunt syndrome improves the restoration of facial nerve function.
Methods: We reviewed the literature on this subject and calculated the odds ratios for the different treatment modalities.
Results: Our study clearly shows that antiviral medication in combination with corticosteroids improves the outcome for patients with Ramsay Hunt syndrome.
Conclusion: Contrary to a recent Cochrane Library review, we conclude that patients with Ramsay Hunt syndrome should be treated with combination therapy including antivirals.