Radiologist Misses Malignant Mass on Mammogram, Turns out to be Cancer

In August 2008, a woman went for her annual mammogram screening. The radiologist stated that upon review there was no evidence of malignancy. Upon later review by an expert, the August mammogram did in fact show a new, suspicious, ill-defined density measuring 1.5 by 1.5 cm on the patient’s left superior breast.

It was alleged that the mass should have been observed by the radiologist, had he been exercising the appropriate standard of medical care.
In February 2009, due to severe breast pain, the patient returned to the radiology service for an additional mammogram. This time the mass was read as malignant. Also, further testing revealed that cancer had now spread to her liver and bones. The patient was diagnosed with Stage IV breast cancer and told that her illness was not curable. She has since undergone numerous invasive and painful surgeries.
The resulting lawsuit brought by the patient against the doctors, alleging negligence, led ultimately to a negotiated settlement, as recently reported.
Medical malpractice errors lead to thousands of deaths and serious injuries each year. Although healthcare providers have access to more medical devices, diagnostic tests, and drugs than ever before, there remains a high rate of medical malpractice around the country, affecting thousands of unsuspecting patients who place their trust in their doctors, nurses, and hospitals.
If you or a loved one has been the victim of medical malpractice and would like to speak with a medical malpractice attorney, please contact us. Our lawyers are here to answer your questions and discuss how to protect your legal rights. Call our Boston, Massachusetts office at (617) 742-1900, or toll-free at 1-800-545-3732.
By James A. Swartz of Swartz & Swartz, P.C. – Permalink