Chapter 11 - Integumentary System Diseases of Nonhuman Primates

Abstract

Proper identification of skin lesions is an important aspect of nonhuman primate clinical medicine. While skin disease can be due to an isolated dermatologic condition, many skin conditions are caused by systemic diseases for which part of the clinical spectrum includes skin lesions. In this regard, the skin is a unique window to more generalized health concerns. Furthermore, while sedation is often necessary to examine other major organ systems in nonhuman primates, the skin can be observed in awake animals, adding to its clinical utility. Herein, we describe the basic structure and function of the skin and discuss the concept of the skin as a complex organ system. Examination of the skin and description of lesions is covered in depth and a discussion of specific diseases follows. Clinicians should pay close attention to patterns of lesions present with different types of disease so that a list of differential diagnoses can be formulated from specific dermatologic lesions.