Chester Zoo in the United Kingdom has used electrochemotherapy for the first time to treat cancer in a 15ft (4.5m) python. The zoo said it believed this was the first time the treatment had been given to a snake.

The 50kg reticulated python is named Jodie Foster. Treatment began after a cancerous tumour was found in her body. Keepers had noticed that Jodie was eating less than before and spending more time inactive.

Tests found a cancer called malignant fibrosarcoma. The tumour was first removed surgically, but some time later it returned and began to spread into part of the python's jawbone.

Chester Zoo's vets worked with specialists from the University of Liverpool on Jodie's treatment, adapting the electrochemotherapy procedure for her.

The treatment combines a cancer drug called bleomycin with controlled electrical pulses. The pulses temporarily make the membranes of cancer cells more permeable, allowing the drug to enter the cells more effectively.

Ian Ashpole, a veterinary officer at Chester Zoo, said that when the tumour returned, the vets feared it could eventually destroy Jodie's ability to eat. "As far as we know, this treatment has not been used on a snake before," he said.

In an operation lasting about 90 minutes, Ashpole first removed the tumour and part of Jodie's affected jawbone, and electrochemotherapy was then given. Because of the python's size, two tables had to be joined side by side for the operation.

Despite losing part of her jaw, Jodie has had no problems eating or hunting. The zoo said the latest check-up found no sign that the cancer had returned.

The report drew on Anadolu Agency and the BBC.

Source: Jagonews24. First published in Bengali on The Agro News.