CHICAGO, IL – Early detection is vital for skin cancer, yet misdiagnosis remains alarmingly frequent. These medical oversights can lead to grave outcomes and the need for legal recourse.
If you suspect a misstep in your diagnosis, a skilled Illinois cancer misdiagnosis lawyer could be your strongest ally. Continue to read this week’s blog for an overview of the most common skin cancer misdiagnoses and their implications.
What is skin cancer?
Skin cancer arises from the abnormal growth of skin cells due to DNA damage, often inflicted by harmful radiation from the sun or tanning beds. This aberrant DNA behavior triggers rapid, uncontrolled skin cell multiplication, leading to malignant tumors.
Recent statistics indicate a rise in melanoma misdiagnoses which emphasizes the integral role physicians play in monitoring skin changes. Immediate attention to anomalies, like irregularly shaped lesions or mole alterations, can mean the difference between early treatment and dire consequences.
Different types of skin cancer
Skin cancer comes in several distinct forms, which can primarily be classified under the following headings:
- Melanoma
- Nearly 100,000 cases annually in the U.S.
- Though less frequent, malignant melanoma is dangerous due to its spreading capacity.
- Often found on sun-exposed areas like the face and limbs.
- Non-Melanoma including basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.
- Basal Cell Carcinoma
- Originates from basal cells deep within the skin.
- Common on sun-exposed regions like the head and neck.
- Appears as a pearly bump or flat, flesh-color lesion.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma
- Comes from the squamous cells in the epidermis.
- Often found on parts like the face and hands.
- Identified by a firm, red nodule or flat, scaly lesion.
- Basal Cell Carcinoma
Between melanoma and non-melanoma varieties like squamous cell carcinomas, skin cancer is the most common form of cancer diagnosed in the United States.
Most common skin cancer misdiagnoses
The complexity of many skin conditions can make it hard to recognize skin cancer with certainty. While diligent diagnosis is key, certain types of skin cancer can be mistaken for other benign or non-cancerous skin conditions.
- Basal Cell Carcinoma Misdiagnoses
- Benign cysts: These are closed pockets of tissue that may be filled with fluid, pus, or other materials and can appear similar to basal cell carcinoma.
- Harmless lesions: Some other skin lesions or spots can mimic the appearance of BCC, leading to confusion.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma Misdiagnoses
- Eczema: A condition that makes the skin red and itchy; eczema is common and often manifests as inflamed patches that can easily be confused with squamous cell carcinoma.
- Psoriasis: A chronic skin condition that causes cells to build up rapidly on the skin’s surface, forming scales and red patches that are sometimes painful.
- Melanoma Misdiagnoses
- Benign moles: While moles are generally harmless, any change in size, shape, color, or feel can be indicative of melanoma; that said, not all moles are cancerous, which can result in misdiagnosis of skin cancer.
Because these conditions can all resemble skin cancers, it’s wise to consult a dermatologist about any sudden or suspicious skin changes.
Does a skin cancer misdiagnosis qualify as medical malpractice?
Medical professionals are held to certain standards to ensure patient safety. When it comes to diagnosing skin cancer, a deviation from these standards that results in harm might be deemed medical malpractice.
The medical field has established protocols for diagnosing various conditions, including cancer. These protocols are known as the “standard of care.” In potential malpractice cases, expert witnesses in dermatology help define the standard and assess whether it was met. If there’s a breach of this standard, a patient might have grounds for a malpractice claim.
Accurate diagnosis is essential, given the diverse nature of common skin cancers like melanoma, basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Each has its specific diagnostic approach and any lapses can lead to potentially life-threatening consequences.
When the standard of care isn’t upheld, patients should know they have the right to seek compensation for any resulting harm. If you’re considering opening a skin cancer misdiagnosis claim, it’s advisable to enlist the aid of an experienced medical malpractice lawyer in Illinois.
Medical mistakes that can delay the diagnosis of skin cancer
The prompt and accurate diagnosis of skin cancer is imperative for effective treatment and a favorable prognosis; however, various medical mistakes can hinder or delay diagnosis. Some of the most common errors include the following:
- Lack of dermatological expertise
- Overlooking visual clues
- Neglecting biopsies
- Overlooking patient history
- Inadequate screening recommendations
- Delayed specialist referrals
- Misclassification
- Poor follow-up
- Pathological errors
Awareness of these common mistakes is essential for both healthcare providers and patients to ensure timely and accurate diagnosis and pave the way for effective treatment.
Dinizulu Law Group: Your Ally in Skin Cancer Misdiagnosis Claims
Misdiagnosed melanoma or other skin cancers can have severe, life-altering implications. Our team of dedicated attorneys understands medical misdiagnosis is necessary for ensuring that your case receives the consideration it deserves.
The aftermath of a skin cancer misdiagnosis can be emotionally draining and legally demanding. Our attorneys will prove indispensable during this time by collecting evidence, collaborating with medical professionals and ensuring you receive the rightful compensation for your misdiagnosis.
The veteran team at the Dinizulu Law Group is dedicated to ensuring your medical malpractice case is handled skillfully and with due care. Fill out this form or call us at (3312) 384-1920 for an initial consultation.
