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Amyloidosis in pigtailed macaques (Macaca nemestrina): epidemiologic aspects
M M Slattum1, S L Rosenkranz, R F DiGiacomo
1Division of Animal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle 98195.
Laboratory Animal Science
|November 1, 1989
Summary
Amyloidosis is prevalent in pigtailed macaques, with diarrhea being a significant risk factor. This retrospective study highlights key demographic and disease associations for amyloidosis in this primate model.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Primate Medicine
- Comparative Pathology
Background:
- Amyloidosis, a condition of abnormal protein deposits, can affect various species, including non-human primates.
- Understanding risk factors in research animals like pigtailed macaques (Macaca nemestrina) is crucial for animal welfare and research integrity.
- Previous studies on amyloidosis in this species are limited, necessitating further investigation into associated factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and risk factors associated with amyloidosis in pigtailed macaques.
- To examine the influence of demographic factors, diseases, and experimental interventions on amyloidosis development.
- To identify specific clinical conditions or characteristics that increase the likelihood of amyloidosis in this primate population.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective study analyzing necropsy records from 1971 to 1985 at the Washington Regional Primate Research Center (WRPRC).
- Inclusion of 248 cases of amyloidosis from 1,952 necropsies.
- Statistical analyses including univariate analyses and logistic regression, controlling for age, sex, birthplace, and residence.
Main Results:
- Amyloidosis was identified in 13% of necropsies.
- Age, sex, birthplace, and residence were associated with amyloidosis.
- Monkeys born at WRPRC and those aged 0-5 years in the breeding colony showed increased risk.
- History of diarrhea, respiratory disease, or trauma increased amyloidosis risk, with risk escalating with episode frequency.
- Retroperitoneal fibromatosis (a simian D retrovirus manifestation) also correlated with higher risk.
- Diarrhea remained a significant risk factor after controlling for other variables, accounting for most of the increased risk.
Conclusions:
- Demographic factors and specific disease histories, particularly recurrent diarrhea, are significant risk factors for amyloidosis in pigtailed macaques.
- Early-onset disease and specific housing conditions may influence amyloidosis development.
- Diarrhea emerges as a primary clinical predictor of amyloidosis in this macaque population, underscoring the importance of gastrointestinal health management.