Python named Jodie Foster first snake to receive pioneering cancer treatment
Chester zoo resident, 23, ‘back to her usual feisty self’ after electrochemotherapy for tumour in her jaw
TL;DR
- Jodie Foster, a 23-year-old 15ft reticulated python at Chester zoo, received life-saving electrochemotherapy for a fibrosarcoma in her jaw.
- This is believed to be the first time this cancer treatment, normally used on humans, has been administered to a snake.
- The tumor had returned after surgery and was beginning to invade her jawbone, putting her life at risk.
- The 90-minute procedure involved surgery to remove the tumor and jawbone, followed by electrochemotherapy to target remaining cancer cells.
- Jodie is now eating normally and described as 'back to her usual bright and feisty self'.
- The success of the treatment is attributed to collaboration between zoo staff and cancer specialists from the University of Liverpool.
- Details of the procedure will be formally published to benefit the veterinary community worldwide.