Hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state in a chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes)

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Primatology
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state (HHS) is a serious complication of diabetes mellitus in humans.
• Diagnosis of HHS is rare in non-human primates, making its presentation and management poorly understood in these species.

Observation:

• A 19-year-old female chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) exhibited severe clinical signs including cachexia, weakness, poor appetite, jaundice, and excessive urination.
• Initial presentation suggested a critical systemic illness.

Findings:

• The chimpanzee was diagnosed with hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state (HHS).
• This diagnosis is rare in non-human primates, contrasting with its recognition in human diabetes mellitus.
• The case confirms HHS as a potential, albeit infrequent, endocrine emergency in primates.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of considering HHS in non-human primates presenting with compatible clinical signs.
• It suggests HHS may be an under-reported condition in veterinary endocrinology and primate medicine.
• Further research into primate diabetes and its complications is warranted to improve diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.