The most common form of cancer found in women is breast cancer. Breast cancer occurs as a result of mutations or abnormal growths in cells within the breast, and when cells start to grow and multiply uncontrollably, a tumour can form. A malignant tumour is considered cancerous since it can grow rapidly and invade neighbouring cells.
Breast cancer is found mostly in women over 50, however it does occur in younger women and it is in these cases that misdiagnosis is most likely to occur. If breast cancer is discovered early and correctly diagnosed, then the chances of successful treatment are much greater.
Cases of misdiagnosed breast cancer
Unfortunately, some cases of breast cancer are misdiagnosed or incorrectly diagnosed and the cancer is not discovered until much later. In these cases, treatment may be more difficult and include a degree of suffering and stress which could have been avoided if the breast cancer was correctly diagnosed.
In these instances, you may be able to claim compensation for clinical negligence. A misdiagnosis may occur if test results are misinterpreted or there is a failure to correctly gauge the stage of a cancer’s development. In some cases, the cancer is missed or alternatively, the cancer is diagnosed when the patient is not suffering from the disease at all.
Claiming compensation for clinical negligence
If you think you may have been the victim of clinical negligence regarding misdiagnosed breast cancer, contact Legal Advice Helpline on 0800 612 3042. We can provide information on solicitors who will be able to help you if you decide to pursue a claim and who have experience dealing with cases of misdiagnosed breast cancer. Call our helpline now for more information on misdiagnosed illness.