Nantahala's Story
Severe Fibropapillomatosis
This patient suffers from a severe case of Fibropapillomatosis (FP), a disease commonly seen in green sea turtles, that has caused many large “cauliflower like” tumors to form all over their body. Nantahala was rescued and admitted for rehabilitation on November 4th, entangled in fishing line around their neck, flippers, and tumors. The sea turtle rehabilitation staff immediately removed the fishing line and began treatment for entanglement wounds while they assess their health for a potential tumor removal surgery.
Only one week after arrival, Nantahala’s health continued to rapidly decline. Diagnostic results indicated severe infection and internal tumors beyond veterinary care, and this patient’s condition unfortunately warranted euthanization.
Name: Nantahala
Species: Green (Cm)
Age class: Juvenile
Admission date: 11/4/2022
Ailment: Entanglement, FP
Weight: 5.85 kg
Updates
11/4/22: Admitted for rehabilitation, radiographs and blood taken and fishing line removed. Begin daily supportive care, honey application and fluid therapy. Monitoring patient’s floating and behavior.
11/11/22: Patient’s health continues to decline, extremely lethargic and inactive in the tank. After veterinary evaluation patient was euthanized.
