Hematology and serum chemistry values of sooty mangabeys (Cercocebus atys): comparison with rhesus monkeys

Background The sooty mangabey is a vulnerable West African species that naturally harbors simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) without pathological symptoms. We present normative hematology and serum chemistry values for this species. Methods Hematology analytes from 136 females and 96 males and serum chemistry analytes from 57 females and 26 males were studied. Results Values of several analytes fell outside published reference ranges in the rhesus monkey, a laboratory standard for Old World primates. Erythrocyte‐related parameters were higher in mangabeys than in rhesus monkeys, while platelet counts were lower. Mangabeys also had higher gamma‐glutamyltransferase levels and lower urea nitrogen levels. Males had higher erythrocyte‐associated values than females. Albumin, globulin, albumin/globulin ratio, calcium, and creatinine changed with age in patterns similar to those reported for the rhesus monkey. Conclusions The unique blood profile of the mangabey should be taken into account in clinical and experimental studies of this species.