UK Zoo's Innovative Treatment Rescues Cancer-Stricken Python Jodie Foster

Chester Zoo, located in northwest England, has announced a significant medical breakthrough, successfully curing a python named Jodie Foster of cancer. The 4.5-meter (15-foot) reticulated python, named after the renowned Hollywood actress, is reportedly the first snake to undergo an innovative combined treatment of surgery and electrochemotherapy (ECT). The zoo confirmed Jodie Foster's full recovery following the re-emergence of a cancerous growth in her jawbone, which necessitated an initial surgical procedure followed by ECT.

While medical science has seen a rise in cancer treatments for animals utilising therapies originally developed for humans, this particular case stands out. Previous instances of ECT have been documented for other reptiles, such as a turtle and a lizard, in various medical science reports. However, the veterinary experts at Chester Zoo, in collaboration with cancer specialists from the University of Liverpool, believe their adapted pioneering treatment marks a global first for a snake.

Ian Ashpole, a veterinarian at Chester Zoo, explained the critical situation in a press release. He stated, “We were facing the possibility of losing her as the tumour made it more and more difficult for her to eat.” This prompted the team to collaborate with cancer specialists to explore the feasibility of adapting electrochemotherapy for a snake. Ashpole added, “As far as we’re aware, this is the first time it’s ever been used in one.”

Concerns for the 23-year-old python, a resident at the zoo for two decades, arose when zookeepers observed a significant decrease in her appetite and increased inactivity within her enclosure. Diagnostic tests subsequently confirmed a malignant tumour in her jaw, which was initially surgically removed. However, the tumour recurred, necessitating a second surgical intervention during which ECT was administered to eradicate any persistent cancerous cells.

Electrochemotherapy, or ECT, functions by combining the cancer medication bleomycin with targeted electrical pulses applied directly to the tumour. These pulses temporarily enhance the permeability of cancer cells, thereby allowing the drug to penetrate and act more efficiently.

Recounting the surgical process, Ashpole detailed the logistical challenges. “She is so big we had to put two operating tables together, effectively making one the size of a double bed,” he said. The procedure, performed by Ashpole, involved the removal of a section of Jodie Foster’s jawbone. He further explained, “We used heated blankets and warmed air to keep her body temperature stable throughout the operation. After 90 minutes of surgery, she recovered remarkably quickly.”

A follow-up examination conducted this week confirmed Jodie Foster’s excellent recovery. The zoo reported that she is now “cancer-free, eating normally and back to her usual ‘bright and feisty’ self”.

Jose Alvarez Picornell from the University of Liverpool’s small animal and clinical science department lauded the successful treatment as “a testament to the power of collaboration.” He elaborated, “By working closely with Ian (Ashpole), we were able to develop a plan that not only benefited Jodie Foster but will also contribute to the wider veterinary community.” Picornell also revealed that the team plans to formally publish the procedural details, enabling “veterinary colleagues around the world to learn from and build upon our approach.”

The python received her name, Jodie, from Chester zookeepers two decades ago. She arrived at the zoo without a name, her paperwork simply bearing the initials “JF,” which stood for “juvenile female.” Coincidentally, these initials matched those of the celebrated Oscar-winning actress, leading to her unique moniker.