Ipsilateral deafness and herpes zoster ophthalmicus.

Three cases of ipsilateral deafness occurred in association with herpes zoster ophthalmicus. Although our review of the literature did not disclose any identical cases, we believe that this complication may not be rare. If vertigo, tinnitus, abnormal auditory sensations, or ear pain occur with herpes zoster of any cranial nerve, an audiogram is indicated immediately to detect possible hearing loss. There is no known satisfactory treatment for sudden deafness due to herpes zoster infection.