This paper reports a case of Ramsay-Hunt syndrome complicated with incomplete Vernet syndrome caused by otic herpes zoster treated with acupuncture as the main therapy. The pathogenesis of the patient was spleen deficiency with dampness-heat

and blockage of the orifices and collaterals. The combination therapy of flash cupping

fire needling

acupuncture and Chinese materia medica was delivered. Flash cupping was performed on the affected side of the face

fire needling pricking was applied at the herpes zoster area; acupuncture was applied at local acupoints on the face

combined with the "experienced ten acupoints" and the acupuncture method of "ascending on the left and descending on the right" based on the theory of

yiqi zhouliu

(constant circulatory flowing of

qi

)

i.e. for the left side

acupoints of the three-

yin

meridians were selected and treated with twirling reinforcing manipulation

for the right side

acupoints of the three-

yang

meridians were

selected and treated with the twirling reducing manipulation. The treatment was given once every 3 days

twice a week. After 1 month of treatment

the modified

Yuebi Jiazhu

decoction was given additionally for 14 doses. After 2 weeks of treatment

the herpes zoster resolved and the pain was relieved; after 1 month of treatment

the swallowing function was improved; after 2 months of treatment

the House-Brackmann (H-B) facial nerve function grade was decreased from grade Ⅵ to grade Ⅲ

the Sunnybrook facial grading system score was increased from 21 to 67

and the swallowing

hoarseness

auditory and gustatory functions

as well as the general condition were all improved; at 1 month follow-up

the condition of the patient remained stable.