I have read lots of stories about mistakes in diagnosing cancer. Is there cause for concern?
In the past 6 months, 3 different hospitals have hit the headlines where a particular doctor has made mistakes in diagnosing cancer. In Ireland, 2000 breast screenings were being reviewed; in Dorset, thousands of breast and prostate samples were being re-examined; and last week saw the rechecking of 2500 breast scans in Manchester.
Breast screening is carried out by Radiologists who examine and interpret mammograms. So in Ireland and Manchester, the hospital reviewed the work of a Radiologist whose work they were concerned about. Pathologists examined tissue samples and in Dorset, a Pathologist left the hospital after 57 patients were misdiagnosed.
The figures appear alarming but need to be put into context. Mammograms and biopsies (taking a small piece of tissue for examination) are routine tests carried out to investigate the possibility of disease, including cancer. Hundreds of thousands of these tests are carried out every year. In the case of cancer, not only can the disease itself be diagnosed but changes in cells which may lead to cancer, can also be seen. This means that early treatment can prevent cancer developing.
The tests are, in most cases, carried out by competent doctors who are very well experienced in their field. These doctors diagnose correctly so that a treatment plan can be put in place to save or prolong lives.
However, occasionally a doctor does not perform their duties competently, which results in mistakes. The impact of this can be widespread, given the number of tests carried out. The hospital then has a duty to investigate the work of that doctor. This can mean investigating work carried out years before. The patients concerned are then contacted if doubts about their tests are raised and recalled for further tests and if necessary, treatment.
Anyone who has undergone tests for cancer or any other disease, which they believe was incorrect, should seek legal advice regarding possible misdiagnosis.
