Failure to Diagnose or Misdiagnosis of Prostate Cancer in Massachusetts
A failure to diagnose prostate cancer creates a dangerous situation for the victim. Any negligence on the doctor’s part could lead to serious consequences such as complete removal of the testicles and radiation placed inside the body. If anyone has been a victim of such type of negligence, he should contact the law firm of Parker Scheer immediately to schedule a consultation. A failure to diagnose prostate cancer or misdiagnosis of prostate cancer could be the reason for an otherwise preventable death.
The prostate in a male is the walnut-sized gland that produces seminal fluid to feed and transport sperm correctly. In best-case scenarios, prostate cancer remains confined to the gland and progresses very slowly. In this stage, it is easily treatable. However, in some cases, cancer spreads beyond the prostate very quickly (usually to the bones and lymph nodes) and needs immediate attention. Signs that a patient may have prostate cancer include pain in the area, trouble urinating, erectile dysfunction, and problems having sexual intercourse. There are more symptoms that may present themselves as cancer progresses. These later symptoms include pain in the bones, such as the spine or ribs, as well as weakness in the legs (caused by cancer in the spine) and incontinence.
Men who have a history of prostate cancer in their families are at a higher risk for the disease. Additional risk factors include obesity and advanced age. In fact, the current average age for those receiving a diagnosis is 70 years old. Because of this, it testing is recommended for some men starting at age 50, or earlier depending on risk factors in play for this patient.
Doctors must perform two tests to detect prostate cancer. The first is a DRE test or Digital Rectal Exam, in which the doctor puts his finger in the man’s rectum and checks for abnormalities in the prostate gland. The second test is where PSA levels are checked via a blood test. PSA, Prostate-specific antigen, is produced by the prostate gland, and if the levels are too high, that is a sign of cancer.
If there is any suspicion of cancer, the doctor may order an ultrasound and do a biopsy. It is important to find out if cancer has spread because if it has, the disease becomes harder to treat. Stage 1 and 2 prostate cancer can be treated with radiation. Yet in Stage 4, cancer has spread to the bones, lungs, lymph nodes, and other organs. In any case, doctors must be able to diagnose prostate cancer as soon as possible and know how to treat it effectively for the correct stage.
Be forewarned because negligence does happen. Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers that doctors fail to diagnose. This should be an alarming concern for men everywhere. Therefore, when looking for a doctor, make sure to find one who specializes in prostate cancer and/or men’s health. If your doctor fails to diagnose you when risk factors are present of you complaint of symptoms or for any other reason, you may have a case for medical malpractice.
Find Out If You Have A Prostate Cancer Lawsuit
If you believe you or someone you love has been the victim of medical malpractice, you should talk to an experienced lawyer about your case. Parker Scheer lawyers have successfully negotiated and tried dozens of Massachusetts medical malpractice and personal injury cases, recovering millions of dollars for their clients. Please contact us for a free confidential case review and receive a response within hours, or call (617) 886-0500. If you need a lawyer outside of Massachusetts, Nevada, please contact us for a referral.
