Cervical Cancer Claim - 4 Year Delay in Diagnosis

CERVICAL CANCER; 4 YEAR DELAY IN DIAGNOSIS; HYSTERECTOMY AND RADIOTHERAPY

A V (1) SOUTH DURHAM HEALTHCARE NHS TRUST (2) COUNTY DURHAM HEALTH AUTHORITY (2003)

Aged 40 A's routine cervical smear was reported as clear. Repeat tests six months and a year later were again reported as clear. A further three years later routine cervical smear was reported as borderline and repeat smear in six months recommended.

A was admitted with heavy vaginal bleeding five months later. She was diagnosed with cervical cancer which had spread to the lymphatic system.

A underwent radical hysterectomy, pelvic lymphadenectomy and radiotherapy.

BREACH OF DUTY

The Defendants accepted that the first cervical smear had been incorrectly reported.

CAUSATION

The Defendants accepted that had the first cervical smear been reported properly cancer would have been identified and treated at pre invasive stage successfully by diathermy or laser. Subsequent treatment and increased risk of recurrence would have been avoided.

OUTCOME

The case was settled without trial for £60,000