Mpox
Definition & Pathogen
Mpox (formerly monkeypox) is caused by the Mpox virus (Orthopoxvirus, double-stranded DNA virus, family Poxviridae). Two clades:
- Clade I (Central Africa, DRC): higher mortality of around 3–6 %; new sub-clade Ib spreading since 2024.
- Clade II (West Africa): sub-clade IIb caused the global 2022–2024 outbreak with overall lethality <1 %.
Clinical presentation
- Incubation: 5–21 days (median 7–10 d)
- Prodrome: fever, marked lymphadenopathy (typical — absent in classical smallpox!), myalgia, headache
- Skin lesions: macule → papule → vesicle → pustule with central umbilication → crust. synchronous stages of skin lesions (key DD criterion versus varicella!), deep-seated, firm, painful
- Distribution 2022/2024 outbreak: anogenital, perianal, perioral; single lesions rather than the classical centrifugal pattern
- Proctitis common after sexual transmission; also tonsillitis/pharyngitis
- Course: 2–4 weeks; scarring possible
Overview
Moved out — see dedicated card „Mpox (Monkeypox)“ for the full topic (clinical features, diagnostics, therapy, 2024 public-health lessons).
Differential diagnoses
- Herpes simplex labialis
- Secondary syphilis (lues II)
- Varicella (chickenpox)
- Impetigo
- Scabies
- Urticaria
- Herpes zoster
- Hand-foot-and-mouth disease
Practise Mpox in the app
Flashcards with spaced repetition, exam questions and spot-the-diagnosis on this topic – in DermaFuchs, free of charge.
In the DermaFuchs app: 2 flashcards · 1 clinical images
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More viral skin infections
Note: This page is intended for medical education and does not replace diagnosis or treatment decisions in individual cases. Treatment and follow-up content is available in the app.