Case Study: Loss of Pathology Specimen Leads to Uncertain Diagnosis. Compensation: £2,000

Call 0345 872 6666


Case Study: Loss of Pathology Specimen Leads to Uncertain Diagnosis. Compensation: £2,000

Edwina, 63 years old, Manchester

JMW has successfully obtained £2,000 compensation for a woman following the loss of a pathology specimen resulted in an uncertain cancer diagnosis, leaving the victim extremely anxious.

Edwina attended the A&E Department with a short history of lower abdominal pain and loss of appetite and was admitted with suspected appendicitis.

The following day an exploratory laparotomy revealed a large mass partially obstructing the bowel and a right hemi-colectomy was performed. A specimen was sent for analysis in order to confirm the nature of the tumour although the surgeon believed it to be cancerous.

Edwina recovered well from the surgery without any complications and was discharged a week later. Unfortunately, the specimen never reached the laboratory, possibly because of inadequate labelling, so it was impossible to know for certain whether or not the tumour was malignant.

However, because of the strong suspicion of malignancy Edwina was referred for a whole body CT scan. Despite the fact that this revealed no evidence of metastatic disease a 24-week course of adjuvant chemotherapy was commenced. She has remained well and symptom-free ever since.

Consequences

Edwina found that the uncertainty about whether or not she had had cancer caused her a great deal of anxiety and she became concerned that without a firm diagnosis she may not receive the correct treatment.

Settlement

The hospital accepted that the loss of the specimen was inexcusable and made an offer of £2,000 to compensate for the anxiety caused to Edwina.

A provision was included in the settlement for Edwina to be able to reopen her case in the event that causation could be established. For example, if her health deteriorates in the future and it becomes evident that the lack of information caused by the loss of the pathology specimen prevented a more effective treatment.

Have you also suffered in a similar manner?

If so, call us on 0345 872 6666 or fill in our contact form to discuss whether you have a case with a member of our team.

Did you find this post interesting? Share it on:

Related Posts