Cancer isn’t just one disease; it is a group of more than 100 diseases that involve the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the body. Cancer occurs when new cells grow out of control and old cells don’t die, often resulting in a mass of tissue called a tumor.
Early detection is the most effective key to successfully fighting cancer. Tests such as biopsies, mammograms or prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests are commonly used to detect cancer. Unfortunately, these critical tests are not always ordered by doctors, or the results are misread by radiologists or pathologists. These errors can lead to critical delays in a cancer diagnosis, severely increasing the risk of devastating and even fatal consequences.
If you believe your doctor failed to diagnose your cancer or that of a loved one, call the experienced medical malpractice attorneys at Shapiro & Sternlieb, LLC today at (732) 617-8050 to discuss your case for free. We proudly serve the Newark and Jersey City areas of New Jersey.
Failure to Diagnose Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in women. A woman’s breast cancer is typically discovered in one of two ways: either by a visit with her physician or through self-examination. When a doctor suspects or discovers any abnormalities, that doctor has a duty to conduct further testing or refer that patient to another doctor who specializes in these cases.
The most commonly used testing methods, mammograms and CT scans, are not perfect and neither are the medical professionals who interpret the results. False-negative mammogram interpretations are tragically far too frequent. CT scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans could be more accurate.
Despite sophisticated testing methods, human error could result in a missed diagnosis. Test results are misinterpreted. Malignant tumors are dismissed as benign. These tragic errors can cost lives.
Failure to Diagnose Colon Cancer
Colon cancer refers to cancer of the colon, or large intestine. Rectal cancer refers to cancer of the lower six inches of the colon. Together, they are commonly known as colorectal cancers.
Colorectal cancers usually develop slowly, over a span of many years. They often emerge as small benign growths known as polyps. Early removal of polyps, before they become malignant, can prevent the development of colorectal cancer.
A colonoscopy is the primary method of testing or screening for colorectal cancer. Misdiagnosis or delayed treatment can require more aggressive treatment, such as chemotherapy, radiation and radical surgery. Patients may be forced to live with a colostomy bag or tragically suffer a premature death.
Failure to Diagnose Prostate Cancer
The American Cancer Society reports that aside from skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among American men. The majority of prostate cancers are identified in men aged 65 and older.
The prostate gland is a part of the male reproductive system, located between the anus and the bladder. It is surrounded by nerves that control the erection of the penis, which is why prostrate problems can be accompanied by some erectile dysfunction.
Prostate cancer is unlikely to produce any symptoms in its early stages. Two primary tests are used to screen for prostate cancer: the digital rectum exam (DRE) and the prostate-specific antigen blood test (PSA).
Unfortunately, medical professionals may fail to recommend or perform these crucial and life-saving tests. In other situations, improper follow-up or miscommunication can occur, leading to more radical surgical treatment and even death.
Failure to Diagnose Melanoma Cancer
Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States. Melanoma accounts for only one percent of all skin cancer cases, yet is responsible for the overwhelming majority of skin cancer fatalities. When it is detected early, melanoma is very curable. However, when not diagnosed at an early stage, the cancer can spread to other areas of the body with fatal results.
Dermatologists and primary care doctors play vital roles in melanoma detection through careful inspections of a patient’s skin. When medical professionals fail to diagnose skin cancer early enough, the errors can cause death and warrant a wrongful death lawsuit.
How Shapiro & Sternlieb, LLC Can Help
Medical malpractice cases are extremely complicated and require an experienced attorney who is intimate with this complex area of law. Our lawyers have the knowledge, skill and passion for justice you need in these cases.
If you have been harmed or lost a loved one because of a failure to diagnose cancer, you could be eligible to receive compensation for:
- Medical costs
- Lost wages
- Rehabilitation
- Disability
- Long-term care expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Funeral and burial costs
Schedule Your Free Initial Consultation Today
Every case is unique, and the only way to understand the strength of your claim and the extent of your legal options is to schedule a free consultation with our skilled cancer lawyers today. If you live in Jersey City or Newark, New Jersey, please contact us by completing the form on this page or calling (732) 617-8050. We work on a contingency basis, which means that we don’t get paid unless you do.
