Squamous cell carcinoma in chinese hamsters (Cricetulus griseus)

ABSTRACT

Background: The companion animal market has changed over the years. The number of people living in small apartments has increased; as a result, the demand for small pets such as exotics, fish, and small rodents has also increased due to their smaller space requirements and ease of handling and care. Pets help relieve anxiety and stress in people suffering from social issues. Small rodents are usually bred in specific cages with cellulose or wood shaving bedding, and fed with commercially available diets. Small rodent clinics struggle due to the lack of scientific reports on some diseases and therapies. To date, the oncology literature is too limited to develop better diagnosis and treatment methods. Here, we report three cases of squamous cell carcinoma in the mandibular region of Chinese hamsters (Cricetulus griseus).Case Three adult male hamsters averaging 1.5 years old, from different pet stores, bred under home conditions by different owners in Sergipe, Brazil, were brought to the Dr. Vicente Borelli Hospital at Pio X University for exotic veterinary care. Each animal had been bred alone in a specific breeding cage. Each had a history of apathy, loss of appetite, and rapid deformity of the facial region. Radiographs showed areas of bone involvement and extensive injury, with partial resorption of the left ramus and angle of the mandibular region. Due to the location of the tumor mass, the clinical status, and limitations in systemic treatment, euthanasia was recommended for each animal. After anamnesis, the animals were subjected to clinical assessment. A firm and well-circumscribed mass was identified on palpation. In case A, it compromised the left mandible from the angle to the body and extended to the maxillary soft tissues and left superior lips. In case B, it extended from the ramus to the symphysis on the left side and to the maxillary region, similar to case A.[...]