Orf and Milker’s nodule

Abstract

This chapter covers orf and milker’s nodule, which are characteristic nodular skin lesions caused by parapox viruses of sheep and goats, or cattle, respectively. These viruses are epitheliotropic and able to suppress the host’s immune response. The infections are occupational zoonoses of people working with ruminants. A single or small number of somewhat painful pustules develops, usually on the hand, at the site of contact with an animal’s lesions. Fever is unusual, but local lymphadenopathy, erythema multiforme, or secondary infection may occur. Spontaneous resolution within 6 weeks is usual. Multiple, giant lesions may develop in the immunosuppressed. Topical cidofovir is effective in severe cases.