Mechanism and future prospect of treatment of facial paralysis caused by herpes zoster virus infection with acupuncture combined with medicine: A review

Medicine (Baltimore). 2024 Sep 20;103(38):e39652. doi: 10.1097/MD.0000000000039652.

Abstract

Herpes zoster virus infectious facial paralysis is caused by the reactivation and replication of varicella-zoster virus, which leads to herpetic inflammatory lesions, resulting in peripheral facial paralysis associated with herpes rash in the auricle and external ear, and vestibular cochlear dysfunction. It is also known as Ramsey-Hunter syndrome (Hunt syndrome). Facial paralysis caused by herpes zoster is difficult to cure due to its easy loss of treatment and mistreatment. Cause a greater burden on the patient's body and mind. However, the treatment of Western medicine has lagged behind and there are many adverse reactions, which cannot be completely cured, and new alternatives are urgently needed. This article briefly reviews the advantages and disadvantages of modern medical treatment of Hunt syndrome. This paper expounds the unique ideas of traditional Chinese medicine in the treatment of Hunt syndrome from the perspectives of antiviral, antibacterial, improving blood circulation, protecting cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and nerve. This article discusses the superiority of traditional Chinese medicine in the treatment of Hunt syndrome from 2 aspects of Chinese medicine therapy and acupuncture therapy, and points out the feasibility of combined treatment of acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine. So as to provide a new treatment for Hunt syndrome.