Interesting articles on various topics!

Misdiagnosis of Lung Cancer – A Doctors Mistake

Posted: January 29th, 2010 | Category: Legal

Medical Malpractice Explained by Lawyer

Lung cancer is one of the most diagnosed cancer, following breast cancer in women and prostate cancer in men. This cancer is the most deadly cancer, killing more men and women each year than any other type. Lung cancer has no cure but the patient’s prognosis is heavily based on how early the diagnosis and treatments are.

However, not every patient receives a timely diagnosis and this is unfortunate because a misdiagnosis of lung cancer can have devastating consequences. We represent individuals and families who suffered losses because of medical negligence and our law firm will gladly evaluate your claim free of charge.

How Misdiagnosis of Lung Cancer Occurs

A misdiagnosis of lung cancer may refer to a delayed diagnosis, a missed diagnosis, or a wrong diagnosis. Factors that may lead to or cause a misdiagnosis of lung cancer include:

  • Mistaking the lung cancer as another condition – bronchitis or tuberculosis, for example
  • Failing to perform necessary tests such as x-rays, biopsies and/or MRIs
  • Misinterpreting test results
  • Failing to obtain full medical history – for instance, whether a patient suffered toxic exposure such as asbestos or is a smoker
  • Mistaking symptoms of another condition for cancer when no cancer is present
  • Identifying a tumor as benign when it’s malignant, or vice versa

Misdiagnosis can occur with any of the various types of lung cancer, including primary, secondary, small cell, non-small cell and mesothelioma.

What Happens When Lung Cancer Is Misdiagnosed

When lung cancer is not diagnosed accurately or in a timely manner, the following could occur:

  • No treatment is initiated
  • The wrong treatment is initiated
  • Unnecessary treatment is initiated

In fact, a misdiagnosis of cancer can significantly reduce a patient’s survival rate and, in some cases, lead to an untimely death.

Victims of Misdiagnosis Have Legal Rights

Patients have a right to a certain standard of treatment. If a doctor fails to provide the accepted level of care, they are acting negligent, legal action can be taken by patients to recover damages for harm they suffered. Recoverable damages depend on the circumstances of an individual case but may include any or all of the following:

  • Expenses for treatment
  • Pain and suffering
  • Mental anguish
  • Loss of companionship
  • Loss of financial support

Are You Eligible for Compensation?

Let the experienced medical malpractice attorneys at our law firm evaluate your case free of charge and find out if you are eligible for compensation. If you have any questions about your claim we will answer them and inform you of your legal options. Talk with our attorneys today to learn more.