A woman presented to an emergency department with acute abdominal pain. Lab tests identified new-onset anemia, and a CT scan revealed bowel intussusception—findings that, in an adult, can strongly indicate a potential malignancy. Despite these critical results, the hospital discharged the patient without adequately addressing or investigating these concerning findings.
Following her discharge, the patient began iron infusions through her primary care provider. However, the primary care provider also failed to investigate the underlying cause of the anemia and the CT scan findings. Approximately 18 months later, the patient revisited another emergency department with similar symptoms. It was then discovered that the initial CT scan had shown the same concerning findings, which had been overlooked. Subsequent surgery revealed a tumor, and biopsy results confirmed it was malignant. Unfortunately, due to the initial oversight, the malignancy had progressed unchecked during the intervening period.
Our firm meticulously identified the lapses in care by both the initial hospital and the primary care provider. We pursued a medical malpractice claim based on the lost opportunity for earlier chemotherapy and radiation, which would have likely resulted in a better prognosis. Through our dedicated efforts, we were able to secure a substantial settlement for the patient, providing crucial financial support as she navigates ongoing cancer treatments.
Type of Medical Malpractice: Failure to Diagnose
Standard of Care Issues:
- Accurate interpretation of lab and imaging results
- Recognition of critical findings suggestive of malignancy in adults
- Timely and appropriate referrals and interventions based on diagnostic findings