Occurrence and clinical significance of abnormal liver findings by ultrasound in captive owl monkeys.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Imaging diagnostic methods are essential for a complete understanding of the liver function and may aid in early detection of hepatic disorders. METHODS: Sixty-nine owl monkeys were grouped in three age groups (AG) AG1 (<2 years old, n = 14), 2 (2-6 years old, n = 21), and 3 (>7 years old, n = 34). The animals were evaluated by ultrasound, liver function tests, and hemogram. RESULTS: The ultrasound revealed abnormal findings in the parenchyma ("starry sky" and steatosis) and/or in the gallbladder (cholelithiasis, septum, and wall edema) in 17 individuals, with higher incidence in AG3 individuals. Seven hepatic individuals showed alterations in the blood tests. CONCLUSION: Our study reported the occurrence of abnormal liver findings by ultrasound in owl monkeys and their associated clinical analyses. We recommend the regular use of ultrasound to evaluate liver condition in owl monkeys, particularly in old individuals.