Prolapse of invaginated colon through the anus in golden hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus)

Six cases of invagination of the colon with prolapse through the rectum were reported in the Golden Syrian hamster. The anatomy of the colon and its enveloping mesentery in the hamster are thought to be predisposing factors in the process of invagination. The mesenteric fold incorporates the spleen in this animal and acts as a ligament stopping further invagination. The gross pathology associated with the process of invagination was described. Observations with respect to the pathogenesis were included, emphasizing the point that peristalsis and not the initiating intestinal irritant is the major causal factor.