A Case of Massive Pulmonary Thromboembolism Associated with Ramsay Hunt Syndrome: A Case Report / 대한구급학회지

ABSTRACT

Ramsay Hunt syndrome associated with the Varicella zoster virus (VZV) infection is characterized by vesicles on the pinna, otalgia, facial nerve palsy and sensorineural hearing loss. Although significant complications from VZV infection are increasing, thrombosis associated with VZV infection is one of the rare complications in adults. The VZV itself could cause endothelial damage in the various organs. Subsequently, the thrombosis might be complicated. A previously healthy 84 year-old female patient was diagnosed with Ramsay Hunt syndrome. On the 7th day of antiviral treatment, she complained of sudden breathlessness. She was hypoxemic with an elevated alveolar-arterial oxygen difference and needed to be supported by mechanical ventilation. Massive pulmonary thrombosis was documented by computerized tomography and she successfully underwent thrombolytic therapy. We report a case of massive pulmonary thromboembolism associated with VZV infection, treated with thrombolytic therapy.