Quick cytological diagnosis and rapid improvement with imiquimod cream in a case of orf infection

Abstract

Orf is a viral infection caused by the orf virus known to be the largest DNA virus that belongs to the Parapoxvirus genus. The disease occurs 3-7 days after contact with sheep and goats. Lesions usually resolve spontaneously within 6-8 weeks. On the other hands, infection may show progressive course in immunosuppressed patients. It has been reported that imiquimod cream can provide rapid improvement. We present the case report of a 48-year-old woman who developed erythematous nodular lesions two days after contact with animal. Tzanck smear examination was performed from nodular lesion, and cytoplasmic inclusions (Guarnieri bodies) were detected. The lesion rapidly resolved with topical imiquimod cream.