LSU's Live Mascot Mike VI Has Been Diagnosed With Cancer

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Once at the LSU SVM, Mike was put under general anesthesia and given a CT (computed tomography) scan to determine the cause of the swelling. All diagnostic findings were reviewed by multiple specialists, both at LSU and at other institutions, and it was determined that Mike has a tumor in his face near his nose. Biopsy analysis led to a diagnosis of spindle cell sarcoma, which is a malignant tumor derived from fibrous connective tissues of the bone. This is an extremely rare form of cancer, but this type of cancer is unlikely to spread to other areas of the body.

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. SRT will be performed by experts at Mary Bird Perkins – Our Lady of the Lake Cancer Center here in Baton Rouge, in conjunction with Mike's veterinary team.

Eventually, the radiation-resistant cells remaining in the tumor will resume growth. As for timeframes, it is estimated that without treatment Mike VI could live 1-2 months; with treatment, perhaps 1-2 years.

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