В зоопарке Амарилло успешно удалили злокачественную опухоль у 21-летней львицы Шебы

Tests show malignant tumor fully removed from African lioness at Amarillo Zoo & Sanctuary AMARILLO, Texas (KVII) — A tumor removed from Sheba, a nearly 21-year-old African lioness at the Amarillo Zoo & Sanctuary, was malignant, but tests showed the entire growth was successfully removed. The zoo said the mass removed from Sheba’s tail was identified as a sebaceous gland epithelioma, a low-grade malignant skin tumor. The surgical margins were clear, meaning no tumor cells were found at the edges of the removed tissue. Zoo officials said the tumors generally have a good prognosis when completely removed and rarely spread to other parts of the body. Sheba was sedated Aug. 10 so veterinarians could remove the mass and examine recurring skin lesions. The zoo initially tried cultures and medications because Sheba’s advanced age increased the risks associated with sedation. RELATED | Amarillo’s 'Lion King' dies, Solomon was one of oldest African lions in captivity Tests of the other irritated areas found three types of bacteria. Sheba is being treated with antibiotics while the zoo awaits the results of fungal cultures. Her treatment could be adjusted based on those findings. Bloodwork continued to show changes associated with Sheba’s previously diagnosed kidney disease. However, the zoo said her liver values, electrolytes, blood cells and other organ values were good for a geriatric lion. The zoo will continue treating and monitoring Sheba’s skin and managing her kidney disease. RELATED | Lioness at Amarillo Zoo dies of natural causes Sheba is the last surviving member of three lion siblings brought to the Amarillo Zoo in 2006 after spending their early lives at a wildlife sanctuary. Her brother, Solomon, died of natural causes in June 2025 at age 20 after receiving palliative care for age-related health problems. Her sister, Sarai, died of natural causes in March, also at age 20. The zoo has said African lions typically live 10 to 12 years in the wild and 15 to 18 years in zoological settings.