Delayed Cancer Diagnosis

Malvin

Oct 29, 2024

14:37

A 41-year-old male presented to a primary care practice with fever, abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, and nausea lasting four days. The nurse practitioner (NP) examined him, noting abdominal tenderness and hypoactive bowel sounds but found no masses. After a review of the patient’s recent antibiotic therapy for MRSA, the NP ordered bloodwork, prescribed Flagyl, Lomotil, and Percocet, and documented that a colonoscopy might be necessary if initial tests were inconclusive.

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Lab results showed an elevated white blood cell count (12,700 mcL) and high erythrocyte sedimentation rate (43 mm/hr), and the stool sample tested positive for Clostridium difficile (C. diff). Despite the concerning lab findings and ongoing symptoms, the NP continued the antibiotic regimen without further referral or testing, even as the patient repeatedly returned with bloody diarrhea and abdominal pain over the next year.

One year later, a colonoscopy finally revealed a large sigmoid mass, which tested positive for stage IIIA cancer. Experts criticized the lack of referrals to a gastroenterologist or a physician evaluation, which could have identified the patient’s condition sooner and potentially led to less advanced cancer.

Consequences of Inadequate Treatment Direction in Cancer Cases

Experts in this case indicated that the delay in escalating care and the absence of a referral led to a significant progression of colon cancer. The initial findings—including elevated WBC, ESR, and ongoing rectal bleeding—warranted further investigation. In cases where symptoms persist or worsen, early intervention through specialist referral or additional testing is critical to identify underlying malignancies.

Common Errors in Cases of Inadequate Treatment Direction

In claims against NPs involving inadequate treatment direction, frequent errors include:

- Failure to Refer to a Specialist
Persistent, severe symptoms often warrant gastroenterology or oncology referrals, especially when initial treatments fail.

- Delay in Ordering Diagnostic Tests
Additional imaging or procedures, such as a colonoscopy, are often necessary to assess underlying issues in patients with chronic or worsening symptoms.

- Failure to Recognize Alarming Symptoms
Recurrent abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, and abnormal lab values can indicate serious gastrointestinal disorders, including cancer.

- Limited Oversight by Physicians
Long-term reliance on NP care without physician involvement may hinder early diagnosis of complex or rare conditions.

Damages and Patient Impact

Mismanagement of cancer diagnosis can lead to advanced-stage cancer, increased medical expenses, lost income, disability, and wrongful death. Families often suffer loss of consortium and companionshipand significant emotional distress due to avoidable suffering.

How Malpraq Can Assist

At Malpraq, we understand the devastating impact of delays in diagnosis and ineffective treatment plans. If you or a loved one experienced harm due to delayed diagnosis or insufficient care, we are here to evaluate your case and help connect you with experienced legal support.

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