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[Cowpox and catpox infection. 2 Clinical case reports]
B Feuerstein1, M Jürgens, E Schnetz
1Dermatologische Universitätsklinik, Hartmannstrasse 14, 91052 Erlangen.
Summary
Cowpox/catpox infection, characterized by skin lesions, can occur after contact with cows or cats. Diagnosis involves clinical signs, electron microscopy, PCR, and serology for effective management.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
Background:
- Cowpox and catpox are zoonotic viral diseases caused by orthopoxviruses.
- These infections can present with painful, hemorrhagic vesicles and black crusts, particularly on the hands, fingers, face, or neck.
- A history of contact with infected animals, such as cows or cats, is a key indicator.
Observation:
- Two female patients developed typical skin lesions consistent with cowpox/catpox infection.
- Both patients had a history of recent contact with cows or cats.
- The clinical presentation included painful, possibly hemorrhagic vesicles or black crusts.
Findings:
- Clinical diagnosis of cowpox/catpox infection is supported by characteristic skin lesions and patient history.
- Diagnostic confirmation can be achieved through electron microscopy (detecting cytoplasmic inclusions histologically), polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for virus identification, cell culture, and serological tests for virus-specific antibodies.
- The study highlights the utility of these diagnostic tools in identifying the infection.
Implications:
- Early and accurate diagnosis of cowpox/catpox is crucial for appropriate patient management and preventing potential spread.
- Understanding the diagnostic approaches, including viral identification and serological testing, aids clinicians in confirming the infection.
- The report emphasizes the importance of considering cowpox/catpox in differential diagnoses for patients presenting with specific skin lesions and relevant animal contact history.