Tumorigenesis in the nasal olfactory region of Syrian golden hamsters as a result of di-n-propylnitrosamine and related compounds.

The morphology of neoplasms in the nasal olfactory region of the Syrian golden hamster observed after s.c. injections of di-/!-propylnitrosamine, ß-hydroxypropyl-H-propylnitrosamine, ß-oxopropyl-;i-propylnitrosamine, and methyl-/J-propylnitrosamine are described; all four compounds induced tumors. Neoplastia lesions were characterized by the proliferation of three often intermingled cell types (large cuboidal, cylindrical, and small cell). These cells were similar to cells of olfactory glands, sustentacular cells, and basal cells. Neurogenic elements were not identified in the tumors. Therefore these neoplasms were called carcinomas originating in the olfactory epithelium; the diagnostic criteria were discussed.