Histomorphometry of iliac crest trabecular bone in adult male baboons in captivity

Data in the literature on bone histomorphometry in the baboon are scant. This study provides data from analysis of trabecular bone of the iliac crest of 16 adult male chacma baboons (Papio ursinus) in captivity. Five animals were young adults judging by the presence of growth cartilage in the iliac crest biopsy. Bone volume resembled that in humans, but trabeculae were thinner and more closely spaced. Bone turnover appeared somewhat lower than in humans. Coupling of resorption and formation was excellent as judged by cellular and kinetic variables; erosion surface was an unreliable indicator of ongoing coupling. The similarities between human and baboon trabecular bone make the baboon suited for the study of microstructure and bone turnover of trabecular bone with relevance to humans.