Hematologic and biochemical RIs for an aged population of captive African Green monkeys (Chlorocebus aethiops sabaeus).

BACKGROUND

Established RIs for geriatric African Green monkeys (Chlorocebus aethiops sabaeus) are critical for clinical differentiation of normal aging from disease-related changes in this population.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to establish hematologic and serum biochemical RIs for a Caribbean captive population of geriatric (≥ 15 years of age) African Green monkeys, or Vervets.

METHODS

Inclusion and exclusion criteria were defined for a cohort of 109 healthy, aged (15- to 30-year-old, median 19-year-old) Vervets. Both male (34) and female (75) monkeys were included in RI generation. Complete manual and analyzer-generated blood counts and serum biochemistry profiles were performed at Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, West Farm, St. Kitts, West Indies. All results were evaluated using Reference Value Advisor. Isolated outliers were identified using Dixon's outlier range statistic and not included in determination of RIs for individual analytes. Reference intervals were determined using parametric and nonparametric methods depending on the distribution. Data, including mean, median, maximum, and minimum values, were tabulated.

RESULTS

Of the 109 animals, 12 monkeys were excluded due to abnormal physical examination results (2 monkeys), and ≥ 2 confirmed outliers (9 monkeys), or evidence of disease based on laboratory data (one monkey).

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides useful RIs for assessment of hematology and serum biochemical variables in a geriatric population of African Green monkeys in the Caribbean.