Etiology: Spontaneous malignant neoplasms of the hamster include lymphoma, adrenal gland tumors and interstitial adenocarcinomas.  Melanomas have also been reported.

Incidence:  The incidence of spontaneous malignant tumors is generally low in the Syrian hamster.  However, the frequency of reported tumors varies greatly based on genetic differences in hamster colonies, sex, and age differences.

Clinical Signs:  Clinical signs depend on tumor type.

Diagnosis:  Diagnosis is made by histopathology.