Feasibility of combined upper and lower gastrointestinal endoscopic biopsy in the common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus) to evaluate gastrointestinal diseases

Abstract

Background: Chronic gastroenteropathies, including gluten sensitivity and marmoset wasting syndrome, frequently occur in captive colonies of common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus). Early identification and diagnosis of affected animals are desirable. Endoscopic examination of the colon in marmosets is described, but the small intestine can harbor significant mucosal lesions not representing those in the colon.Evaluating the small intestine currently requires invasive surgical biopsies due to the small patient size, carrying a risk of severe complications.Methods: Endoscopic intubation and multisite biopsy of the duodenum/proximal jejunum are demonstrated in 10 marmosets under general anesthesia.Results: Esophagogastroduodenoscopy with colonoscopy efficiently aid in examining the gastrointestinal tract and obtaining an antemortem histologic diagnosis in marmosets with chronic gastrointestinal signs. Conclusions:This minimally invasive technique is feasible in marmosets. Future investigations into the pathogenesis of chronic gastroenteropathies will benefit from these data, leading to improved animal welfare and better individual and colony health management.

Review of Environmental and Health Factors Impacting Captive Common Marmoset Welfare in the Biomedical Research Setting

“…A definitive diagnosis of IBD-like disease can be difficult to attain as the gold standard for diagnosis has historically been the presence of chronic lymphoplasmacytic enterocolitis documented on postmortem examination of tissues. Recently, a technique for the collection of minimally invasive endoscopic biopsies of the upper and lower GI has been described for common marmosets [ 31 ]. It would be ideal to have a reliable diagnosis of this IBD-like syndrome based on clinical pathology and other noninvasive data.…”