Work

Validation of Immunoassays for Total Thyroxine and Free Thyroxine and Age and Sex‐Related Variation in Thyroid Hormone Serum Concentrations in Orangutans ( Pongo sp.)

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT Background Thyroid disease is reported in orangutans, but to properly diagnose and manage these disorders, reference intervals for circulating thyroid hormones are needed. Methods Commercial immunoassay kits for total thyroxine (TT 4 ) and free thyroxine (FT 4 ) were validated for use in orangutans ( Pongo spp.). Archived serum ( n = 133) was analyzed for TT 4 , FT 4 , total triiodothyronine (TT 3 ), and thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH). Results Female orangutans had significantly higher TT 4 and TT 3 levels compared to males. Adolescent male orangutans had significantly higher FT 4 levels compared to adolescent females. Adolescent orangutans had significantly higher TT 3 levels compared to adults. Orangutans exhibiting three or more clinical signs consistent with hypothyroidism ( n = 8) had significantly higher TSH levels compared to clinically normal orangutans ( n = 125) but no significant differences in TT 4 , FT 4 , or TT 3 . Conclusions Age and sex‐related variation in circulating thyroid hormone concentrations in orangutans is described. Elevated TSH levels are the most consistent finding in orangutans with clinical signs of hypothyroidism.

Source: Journal of Medical Primatology

DOI: 10.1111/jmp.70073

Authors: Melissa A. Fayette, Anneke Moresco, Enass Bassiouny, Dalen W. Agnew, Brian Petroff

Institutions: Indianapolis Zoo, Michigan State University

Language: English

Topic: Thyroid Disorders and Treatments

Subfield: Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,350