Ramsay Hunt Syndrome, medically known as herpes zoster oticus, is a condition caused by the Varicella zoster virus, which also causes chickenpox and shingles. This syndrome leads to painful rashes around the ear, on the face, or in the mouth, accompanied by facial paralysis. It was first described in 1907 by neurologist James Ramsay Hunt. In individuals who had chickenpox during childhood, the Varicella zoster virus can remain inactive (dormant) in nerve cells for years. The reactivation of this dormant virus leads to shingles. If the virus spreads to the facial nerves, Ramsay Hunt Syndrome occurs.