Breast Cancer Claim - 9 Month Delay

DELAY IN DIAGNOSIS OF BREAST CANCER; UNNECESSARY RADIOTHERAPY

M V DR W (2005)

£27,000 settlement for Mrs W for a delay in diagnosis of breast cancer. The delay in diagnosis meant that Mrs W required radiotherapy in addition to the treatment she would have needed anyway.

In April 2002 Mrs W noticed that there was an indentation and dimpling of her right breast. The GP reassured Mrs W as he could not feel a lump.

In January 2003 Mrs W underwent mammogram and subsequently biopsy and was diagnosed with stage II cancer with lymph node involvement.

M underwent mastectomy, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and breast reconstruction.

BREACH OF DUTY

It was M's case that she should have been referred for mammogram in April 2002 (as recommended in the NHS breast screening programme).

CAUSATION

It was M's case that earlier mammogram would have led to an earlier diagnosis and treatment of her cancer and that she would not have required radiotherapy. She would nevertheless have required mastectomy and chemotherapy.

OUTCOME

The GP accepted responsibility and damages were agreed at £27,000.