When it comes to treating a serious health condition, an accurate diagnosis could play an integral role in implementing the proper path of care for patients in North Carolina or elsewhere. Should a diagnosis prove inaccurate or incorrect, the steps taken may prove unnecessary and, in some cases, could cause more harm than good. A man in another state has filed a medical malpractice lawsuit after an incorrect cancer diagnosis led to the unnecessary removal of his prostate.
Incorrect diagnosis
Reports indicate that the incident began after the man visited a medical facility for evaluation after a previous blood test indicated that he had elevated PSA levels. A biopsy was performed, and he was subsequently diagnosed with cancer. He was scheduled to undergo a procedure to remove his prostate and after the operation was completed, he claims to have learned that the diagnosis was incorrect.
The lawsuit states that while evaluating his condition, medical professionals mixed up the biopsy slides and issued a diagnosis based on information from the slides of another patient. According to the lawsuit, a procedure intended to save his life instead proved unnecessary and caused him to suffer permanent harm. He also claims that although he sought out a second opinion, the initial diagnosis was confirmed by a second party within the same group.
The possible ramifications of negligence
Those subjected to medical malpractice due to the negligent actions of medical professionals could suffer a variety of potentially life-altering ramifications. Following a similar experience, a person in North Carolina could choose to retain the services of an attorney for advice on how best to prepare for what comes next. An attorney can evaluate the circumstances a client is facing, along with his or her injuries and financial needs, and assist in seeking the full amount of compensation entitled through a medical malpractice claim.