Diagnostic Testing in Nonhuman Primates

Abstract

Veterinarians in private practice often find it difficult to access updated information regarding diagnostic techniques for nonhuman primates. It may also be problematic for one to find laboratories that are willing to handle primate biological specimens, run diagnostic tests, and interpret results in the absence of extensive species-specific normal data. This article presents 3 common clinical diagnostic challenges encountered with nonhuman primates and provides some practical insights and solutions. Resources and strategies to enhance collegial networking, obtain information on best practices, and develop and maintain relationships with diagnostic laboratories are listed. Commonly used viral-testing laboratories and published summaries are listed. Current challenges in accurate detection of tuberculosis, newly available diagnostic methods, and the need for additional research and enhanced validation of diagnostic methods are discussed.

Key words: nonhuman primate, viral testing, tuberculosis, diagnostic tests, tuberculin skin testing