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Breast Cancer Misdiagnosis

Dedicated Advocacy from Our New York Medical Malpractice Lawyers

Like any type of cancer, breast cancer is treated most effectively when it is detected early after risk factors and warning signs are read properly. When those signs are not interpreted correctly, however, the misdiagnosis of breast cancer can lead to the continued growth of cancer in the body.

At the law firm of Rheingold Giuffra Ruffo Plotkin & Hellman LLP, our experienced New York medical malpractice attorneys have a strong track record holding doctors and other medical professionals accountable for the misdiagnosis of breast cancer. We understand the obligations that medical professionals have in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer and can help our clients pursue compensation for any financial and physical issues that have come as a result.

If you or your family has been affected by a misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis of breast cancer, our firm can help you seek closure. Contact us at (212) 684-1880 or complete this form today.

Missing the Signs of Breast Cancer

Medical professionals, including radiologists, oncologists, and other physicians, are supposed to be able to read mammograms and other tests to screen for breast cancer. If one of these signs is not recognized or is not properly treated when it is seen, it can result in a significant setback for patients.

Common early signs of breast cancer include:

  • Pain
  • Swelling
  • Suspicious lumps
  • Nipple discharges

Another way in which breast cancer can go undetected is through misreading mammograms. If the results of a mammogram are unclear or ambiguous, the physician must follow up on the results and seek further information.

Can a Breast Cancer Biopsy Be Wrong?

Believe it or not, the results of a breast cancer biopsy are not always accurate. A 2015 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association involving 15 American pathologists and 240 breast biopsy specimens found that biopsy specialists frequently misdiagnose breast cancer and/or fail to diagnose breast cancer. In many cases, this leads to too aggressive treatment or lack of necessary and proper treatment.

The results of the study revealed the following:

  • Only about half of the cases involving abnormal/precancerous cells were diagnosed correctly
  • Approximately one-third of these cases were misdiagnosed as “normal” or “not worrisome”
  • Pathologists misdiagnosed about 13% of normal tissue as abnormal or “suspicious”

While this study was conducted in a research setting and, as a result, contains several flaws, this is not the first study to reveal the difficult nature of accurately analyzing breast biopsies. Previous studies have also shown an alarmingly high rate of inaccuracies in breast cancer biopsies.

It is always recommended that any individual who receives a breast cancer biopsy also obtain a second opinion from a qualified medical professional, particularly if the results come back as precancerous or abnormal.

Call (212) 684-1880 Today

Our experienced breast cancer misdiagnosis attorneys frequently work with medical experts to properly review cases. If the misdiagnosis of breast cancer has harmed you or someone you love, it is important to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible. At our firm, we will work with you and your entire family to ensure that your concerns are addressed and your voices are heard.

Because this medical issue predominantly affects women, we also understand that some clients may prefer to work with a female attorney. If so, please ask for Attorney Sherri Plotkin, who is a dedicated partner at our firm and has time and time again served as a fierce advocate for our clients.

Ready to learn more about what our firm can do for you? Fill out our online form to request a free, no-obligation case evaluation with our compassionate team today.