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