Consequences of Failure to Diagnose Cancer

Cancer is one of the most severe diseases known to humanity. Although many diseases are accompanied by significant pain and discomfort when they develop, cancer often progresses slowly and silently. Pain, significant swelling or lumps, bleeding, nausea and significant weight loss frequently appear only in the later stages of cancer development, when it may not be curable or effectively manageable.

According to a New York City medical malpractice attorney, every doctor is taught in medical school that early cancer detection is essential and immensely improves the chances of survival and effective treatment. Although not all cancer can be efficiently detected in the early stages with the currently available medical knowledge and technology, most cancer types can be identified in their first stages using several screening methods. Biopsy is the golden standard, but it is usually employed when there are enough suspicions to discuss a possible cancer diagnosis.

The Papanicolau test, also known as a Pap smear, is used to prevent and diagnose cervical cancer. A mammogram may be employed when there are suspicions of a breast cancer. Flexible sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy are effective diagnostic tools for an early detection of colon cancer. Other early screening tests and blood tests exist to identify various cancer forms in their initial stages, when they can be effectively treated with surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy or hormone therapy.

Although these diagnosis means do exist, many doctors fail to diagnose cancer at an early stage due to various reasons. Sometimes, medical experts can be irresponsible enough not to order these tests at all, even when these are obviously necessary. Failure to diagnose cancer may also be caused by an incorrect interpretation of a test or an incorrect tissue sampling in the case of a biopsy. Whatever the reason, the consequences for cancer patients and their families can be disastrous.

Failure to diagnose cancer deprives the patient of the necessary treatment that could save his or her life, or could prolong their survival years. Frequently, the patient goes home assured that he or she has no cancer, only to return much later with significantly more severe symptoms such as pain, bleeding or weight loss.

Although there is no proper substitute for years of happiness spent with one's family, you could use the services of a medical malpractice lawyer in New York City and surrounding areas. If you or someone you love suffered from an incorrect or a failed cancer diagnosis, don't hesitate to call us to find out how we can help.