Cat pox

Last Updated: 2023-07-07

Author(s): Anzengruber F., Navarini A.

ICD11: -

  • Milking knot
  • Ecthyma contagiosum
  • Non-bullous impetigo
  • Bullous impetigo
  • Actinomycosis
  • Anthrax
  • Herpes simplex

Cat-borne, rare smallpox disease of humans.

Transmission occurs via rodents and cattle, but mainly via cats. Skin lesions serve as a portal of entry.

  • Mostly only a primary lesion, which initially appears as a red macula
  • In the course, formation of pustules and nodules, possibly ulceration
  • Otherwise, there is reduced AZ, fever and lymphadenopathy

  • clinic
  • Electron microscopy (negative contrast)
  • Serology
  • Detection of pathogens

In almost 50% of cases, the hands or fingers are affected, otherwise the face and neck.

Scarring heals in 6-8 weeks.

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  3. Vestey JP, Yirrell DL, Aldridge RD. Cowpox/catpox infection. Br J Dermatol 1991;124:74-8.
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