Work

Progressive Human Orf Virus Infection in a Kidney Transplant Recipient Successfully Treated with Cryotherapy Without Modification of Immunosuppression: A Case Report

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Human orf is a zoonotic parapoxvirus infection that is typically self-limiting with resolution in 3-6 weeks but may cause severe disease in immunocompromised patients. We report a kidney transplant recipient who developed a rapidly progressive fingertip lesion following contact with raw meat during Eid al-Adha. Initial misdiagnosis and surgical excision were followed by marked lesion progression, mimicking a vascular tumor. Histopathology confirmed orf virus infection. However, PCR testing was not done as the test was not available. Topical imiquimod was not initiated due to an active wound. Weekly liquid nitrogen cryotherapy as monotherapy resulted in complete resolution after nine sessions without recurrence. Further modifications/reduction in immunosuppressive medication was not needed. This case highlights cryotherapy as a potential treatment option for orf infection in transplant recipients.

Source: International Journal of Nephrology and Renovascular Disease

DOI: 10.2147/ijnrd.s604203

Authors: Samreen M Rahmoon, Leen M AbuAfifeh, Osama A Alkhalidi, Farooq Ahmad, Gamal BS Alfitori

Institutions: Hamad General Hospital, Hamad Medical Corporation

Language: English

Topic: Poxvirus research and outbreaks

Subfield: Virology

Field: Immunology and Microbiology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,320