Louisiana State University's live mascot, Mike VI, has been diagnosed with cancer, according to a news release from the university's athletic department.
The release said that Mike has been diagnosed with spindle cell sarcoma, an extremely rare form of cancer.
Veterinarian David Baker and veterinary students noticed swelling on Mike's face when he was in his enclosure in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
Following a computed tomography scan, it was determined that the Bengal-Siberian mix tiger had a tumor near his nose.
"Currently, Mike's attitude and demeanor are unchanged, and he does not appear to be in pain," the university said.
The type of cancer Mike has, the release said, is unlikely to spread in his body.
LSU hopes the treatment plan outlined for Mike will give him at least another year to live with a good quality of life:
Dr. Baker consulted with specialists at LSU and around the country to put together Mike's treatment plan, which consists of a new and highly sophisticated form of radiation therapy called "Stereotactic radiotherapy," or SRT. SRT delivers radiation to the tumor in a highly focused manner, sparing surrounding, normal tissues so complications are reduced. Treatment may be given as a single, high dose or as fractionated doses given daily for up to three days. This treatment is not curative but should extend Mike's life and allow him to live comfortably for some time.
It is estimated that without treatment, Mike may have 1 to 2 months left. With treatment, he may have 1 to 2 years.
Mike was born July, 23, 2005 and was donated to LSU by Great Cats of Indiana, a non-profit sanctuary, when he was 2 years old.
According to the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine, Mike is the only live tiger living on a college campus in the U.S.
Mike lives in a tiger habitat north of LSU's Tiger Stadium.
About the Author
