An orangutan at the Phoenix Zoo recently underwent surgery for a rare form of cancer. Zoo officials confirmed it’s the first documented case of sweat gland cancer in an orangutan.
Several months ago, Zoo keepers spotted a small skin mass growing on Michael, one of four Bornean orangutans housed at the Phoenix Zoo.
Veterinary staff removed the mass for testing, which led to the sweat gland cancer diagnosis.
Michael then underwent a second surgical procedure to remove additional tissue around the site the tumor was removed.
The zoo says Michael’s prognosis will be much more favorable if the cancer does not spread to his lymphatic system.
In a statement, Phoenix Zoo Senior Vice President of Animal Health & Living Collections Gary West said the “priority is to give Michael the best chance for a healthy future.”
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