MEDICAL COMPENSATION CLAIMS FOR MEDICAL NEGLIGENCE
Skin Cancer (Malignant Melanoma) JMW Solicitors Example Case
What is Malignant Melanoma or Skin Cancer?
A malignant melanoma (skin cancer) is a tumour of the pigmented cells of the skin. These cells produce melanin; which acts as a protective layer against the damaging effects of the sun and are called melanocytes, they may be single or in clusters which form moles. Melanin is responsible for the bronzing effect of suntan. Melanomas usually occur in the skin and excessive exposure to sunlight is thought to be a contributory factor. Melanomas are relatively uncommon, accounting for about 1% of cancers in the U.K. However, the incidence has been increasing recently possibly due to increased exposure to sunlight. People who are fair skinned and who burn easily are more at risk of developing a melanoma. There is also the possibility of malignant melanomas running in families, referral to a genetic specialist should be offered.
This type of cancer tends to be more aggressive than other skin cancers and the spread of melanomas to other parts of the body, especially the lymph nodes and liver, is common. Therefore early diagnosis may be essential for survival.
Public awareness tends to generate prompt self-referral to GPs. Patients usually present with a history of a growing mole which; may itch or bleed, it may also be of irregular shape or colour. The appearance of a new mole should also raise suspicion. Most melanomas can be diagnosed by clinical features and after clinical examination of the patient the GP should then refer to a consultant dermatologist or plastic surgeon for an expert opinion. After initial assessment by the specialist to confirm diagnosis, surgery is essential.
Removal of the tumour requires specialist surgery to excise the surrounding normal tissue. This is crucial to ensure all affected cells are removed, as recurrence is common following inadequate resection. If the tumour is on the face, delicate removal is necessary to avoid excessive facial scarring.
Following excision, the lesion will be sent for a histology report to confirm diagnosis. How far the tumour has invaded the normal tissue is important in determining the prognosis. Treatment is dependant on the tumour's thickness, this is measured in the pathology laboratory. A thin tumour will be excised and no further treatment may be needed. However, a thicker and more dense tumour will require more extensive treatment, this may include chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Prompt diagnosis, referral and treatment are the key to the successful management of malignant melanomas.
Medical Compensation Claims for Medical Negligence
Claiming damages for clinical negligence is a specialist area of law which requires solicitors who have specific training and experience in medical negligence compensation claims. JMW Medical Negligence Solicitors have one of the most experienced and respected medical negligence compensation claims teams in the United Kingdom. We offer a free advice on medical negligence law, whether you have a good case and how much your compensation might be worth. We are able to deal with cases using legal aid or the no win no fee scheme in appropriate cases. If after talking to us you decide not to take matters further you are under no obligation to do so and you will not be charged for our initial advice session.
If you are unhappy with the treatment you have received, results of the operation or believe the surgeon or hospital has been clinically or medically negligent please contact our specialist clinical negligence team for confidential advice via our online enquiry form or please contact us on 0845 402 0001.
