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Updated: Jul 27, 2026

A Novel High-Throughput Ex Vivo Ovine Skin Wound Model for Testing Emerging Antibiotics
Published on: September 16, 2022
[Three patients with orf (ecthyma contagiosum)]
B Schimmer1, H G Sprenger, P J Wismans
1Havenziekenhuis en Instituut voor Tropische Ziekten, afd. Inwendige Geneeskunde, Haringvliet 2, 3011 TD Rotterdam.
Orf, a viral zoonosis, can infect humans through animal contact, typically presenting as a solitary skin lesion. This benign condition usually resolves spontaneously within weeks, emphasizing the importance of accurate diagnosis to avoid unnecessary treatments.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Zoonosis
Background:
- Orf (ecthyma contagiosum) is a common viral disease in sheep and goats.
- Human transmission (zoonosis) is rare but occurs through direct contact with infected animals or products.
Observation:
- Three human cases of Orf are presented, involving individuals with direct animal contact.
- Clinical presentation typically includes a solitary lesion on the hands or fingers.
Findings:
- Orf lesions are characterized by minimal systemic symptoms and spontaneous regression within 4-9 weeks.
- Diagnosis is primarily clinical, supported by viral detection (electron microscopy, PCR) or histopathology.
Implications:
- Early clinical recognition of Orf is crucial to prevent unnecessary surgical interventions.
- Understanding this benign, self-limiting viral illness aids in patient reassurance and management.
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