Orf virus infection in human ecthyma contagiosum : a case report in the north estern of Iran

The microorganism causing Orf is a DNA virus from the poxvirus family. Although Orf is usually seen on the hands and fingers, it is seldom seen on the face, tongue, eyelids, and perianal areas. Orf often seen in farmers, veterinary physicians, butchers, and the meat industry workers. History of contact with goats and sheep, clinical representations, and epidemiological information are important for diagnosis. No specialized treatment has been suggested for this disease except for the expectant treatment because the lesion is improved by itself and creates lifetime immunity. It is of special importance to quickly diagnose it since it avoids inappropriate treatments and the patient’s stress. In this case Orf was diagnosed based on the contact history and clinical manifestation. The patient was a 47-year-old woman, living in a village. She suffered from a severe pain in the area of thumb. She tells that she has milked the sheep two days before afflicting with the lesion.The lesion presenting with an erythematous violaceous plaque on the left thumb that had started 7 days previously. On examination a central necrotic area was observed. The expectant treatment was carried out by taking acetaminophen 500 mg every 6 hours. The patient was advised to wear gloves when handling her animals; the principles related to the health of the hands were also trained. The patient’s symptoms were improved in one month by the expectant treatment, controlling pain, and follow up. Thus, pay attention to the Orf disease and its differential diagnosis prevent unnecessary prescribing Antibiotics and Antiviral drugs, so we would control the disease.

Keywords:

orf virus , ectyma contagiosum , clinical manifestation , contact history , poxvirus , painful lesions , contagious pustular dermatitis ,