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A Cancer Misdiagnosis Can Be Catastrophic

Last updated on April 30, 2025

A cancerous tumor that is not detected and treated early can advance and metastasize very quickly, severely reducing the patient’s chances of making a full recovery. That is why anyone who has symptoms or risk factors associated with cancer should be screened promptly. At the Providence law firm of DeLuca, Weizenbaum, Barry & Revens, Ltd., our experienced Rhode Island cancer misdiagnosis lawyers pursue medical malpractice claims on behalf of cancer patients and their families. To schedule a free consultation with one of our attorneys, contact us today.

Did Your Condition Get Worse Because Of Malpractice?

Most cancer-related medical malpractice claims are based on a doctor’s misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis of cancer. Doctors can also commit malpractice when they fail to advise patients who have been diagnosed with cancer on the available treatment options. Our firm has extensive experience pursuing malpractice claims against doctors and other medical professionals whose negligence has left our clients untreated or improperly treated for a wide range of cancers, including, but not limited to, the following:
  • Breast cancer
  • Prostate cancer
  • Brain cancer
  • Lung cancer
  • Skin cancer
  • Cervical cancer
  • Colon cancer
  • Bone cancer
  • Ovarian cancer
Doctors are professionally responsible for offering their patients cancer screening based on their age, personal history, family history, exposure to carcinogens and other factors. Patients should also be screened when they or their doctors detect growths that may be cancerous.

Documenting The Consequences Of Untreated Cancer

Our attorneys and nurses work with credible cancer experts to document the consequences of cancer errors. The lawyers at our firm are experienced trial advocates who are fully prepared to make your case in court with the help of cutting-edge technology.

Understanding Cancer Misdiagnosis

A cancer misdiagnosis happens when a doctor either fails to detect cancer or incorrectly diagnoses another condition as cancer. Both scenarios can lead to serious consequences. A missed diagnosis allows cancer to progress unchecked, while a mistaken diagnosis can result in unnecessary treatments such as chemotherapy or surgery.

Misdiagnoses often stem from errors like misreading test results, dismissing symptoms or failing to order proper screenings. Lab mistakes, outdated testing methods and poor communication can also contribute. Regardless of the cause, delayed or incorrect diagnoses can make treatment less effective and limit a patient’s chances of recovery.

The Importance Of Early Detection And Screening

Regular cancer screenings improve the likelihood of early detection, giving patients a better chance at successful treatment. Mammograms, colonoscopies, Pap smears and PSA tests help identify cancer before symptoms worsen. Doctors should recommend screenings based on a patient’s risk factors, including personal and family medical history, lifestyle and exposure to harmful substances.

When doctors fail to recognize warning signs or order necessary tests, patients may lose valuable treatment time. Early intervention can mean the difference between a manageable condition and a life-threatening illness.

Legal Aspects Of Cancer Misdiagnosis

A misdiagnosis may justify legal action if a doctor’s failure to meet the accepted standard of care caused harm. Patients must show that negligence resulted in avoidable suffering, unnecessary treatments or missed treatment opportunities.

Medical records, test results and professional evaluations can help determine whether a doctor’s mistake led to a worse outcome. A thorough review of the facts can reveal whether a timely diagnosis would have changed the course of treatment.

Steps To Take If You Suspect Misdiagnosis

If you believe a cancer misdiagnosis has affected you or a loved one, gathering medical records and seeking a second opinion can help clarify whether an error occurred. Documenting symptoms, test results and doctor visits can provide insight into what went wrong.

Speaking with a medical malpractice attorney can help you understand your legal options. An attorney can assess your case, gather evidence and determine whether pursuing a claim is the right step.

Holding Doctors Accountable For Preventable Cancer Errors

If your condition has gotten worse or you have lost a loved one due to a doctor’s misdiagnosis or other cancer error, don’t hesitate to contact us to discuss your options. We will not charge you any fees unless we help you obtain compensation. To schedule your free initial consultation, call 401-354-7233  toll free, or send us an email to get started.