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Published on: December 15, 2011
Characterization of dermatologic changes in geriatric rhesus macaques
R B Huneke1, C J Foltz, S VandeWoude
1Division of Comparative Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA.
Journal of Medical Primatology
|December 1, 1996
Summary
Geriatric rhesus monkeys exhibit a high prevalence of skin disease, with notable dermal lesions not linked to hormonal issues or bacteria. These age-related skin changes in rhesus macaques resemble those seen in elderly humans.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Dermatology
- Primate Aging Research
Background:
- Nonhuman primates are crucial models for aging research.
- Geriatric rhesus monkeys in aging behavioral studies showed a high incidence of skin disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize age-related skin changes in rhesus macaques.
- To compare dermatologic findings in geriatric, adult control, and sun-exposed monkeys.
Main Methods:
- Gross and histopathologic examination of skin biopsy specimens from four specified locations and lesional areas.
- Analysis of blood for hormone levels (estrogen, TSH, T3, T4, cortisol).
- Bacterial culturing of axillary swabs.
Main Results:
- All nine geriatric monkeys presented with dermal lesions; only one control and one sun-exposed monkey had abnormalities.
- Gross findings included erythema, wrinkling, scaling, hair thinning, foot calluses, and exudative lesions.
- Histologic changes, including dermatitis and a solar lentigo-like lesion, were not associated with hormonal imbalances or bacterial pathogens.
Conclusions:
- Age-related skin changes in rhesus macaques are common and manifest as various dermal lesions.
- These findings are consistent with nonspecific skin changes observed in aging humans.
- This study provides a foundational understanding of dermatologic alterations in aging rhesus macaques.
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