ear, nose, and throat disorders
Herpes Zoster Oticus
Introduction
Herpes zoster oticus is a herpes zoster virus infection of the clusters of nerve cells (ganglia) that control the nerves responsible for hearing and balance (8th cranial nerve) and for facial movement (7th cranial nerve). Herpes zoster ( Shingles ) is infection that results from a reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, which causes Herpes zoster oticus occurs when the herpes zoster virus is reactivated in the 7th (facial) and 8th (auditory or vestibulocochlear) Overview of the Cranial Nerves . The 7th cranial nerve controls some muscles of the face. The 8th cranial nerve controls hearing and balance. (See also Overview of the Inner Ear .) 