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Lactose intolerance in the stumptail macaque (Macaca arctoides): case report
Laboratory Animal Science
|February 1, 1980
Summary
A stumptail macaque experienced chronic diarrhea and weight loss due to lactose intolerance. Substituting lactose with glucose in her diet resolved these symptoms, indicating a dietary carbohydrate intolerance.
Area of Science:
- Primate nutrition
- Gastroenterology
- Metabolic disorders
Background:
- Commercial primate diets often contain lactose, a common disaccharide.
- Chronic gastrointestinal issues can impact animal health and research validity.
Observation:
- A female stumptail macaque presented with a two-year history of intermittent diarrhea and chronic weight loss.
- The macaque was maintained on a standard commercial laboratory diet.
Findings:
- Lactose intolerance was diagnosed through tolerance tests and clinical response to dietary changes.
- Glucose administration effectively raised plasma glucose, while lactose did not, confirming malabsorption.
- Dietary carbohydrate substitution with glucose led to a favorable clinical response.
Implications:
- Highlights the potential for lactose intolerance in non-human primates.
- Suggests careful evaluation of primate diet composition for carbohydrate content.
- Informs veterinary care and nutritional management strategies for captive primates.