Respected Medical Malpractice Attorneys
Melanoma is the most common form of skin cancer and is among the most curable varieties. Approximately 100,000 new cases of melanoma are diagnosed each year. When accurately diagnosed and appropriately treated, the survival rate for melanoma is nearly 100 percent. There are telltale signs of melanoma that should drive any qualified medical professional to order a full complement of tests to determine if cancer is present.
When a doctor fails to diagnose melanoma immediately, it is left to grow in size and severity. If the diagnosis is delayed for too long, the cancer can become fatal. If you or a loved one has suffered due to a doctor's delayed or failed diagnosis of skin cancer, you should seek the advice of a qualified medical malpractice lawyer to discuss your rights and legal options.
Understanding the Difference Between Early and Delayed Diagnosis
When a melanoma is recognized early, there is a relatively simple procedure that involves removing the melanoma, including any portion that has grown below the surface of the skin. In most cases, there is little to no scarring with this type of procedure. In certain cases, however, some skin grafting may be required.
When the diagnosis is delayed, the situation can quickly become much more serious. The surface area that needs to be removed is much larger, and the cancer can spread into the lymph nodes. Aggressive treatment, including radiation and/or chemotherapy is usually required and the survival rate drops considerably.
Know Your Rights
Patients who have been forced to endure invasive surgeries and debilitating cancer treatments because of a delayed diagnosis are entitled to pursue compensation for the additional medical care and treatments that were required. They are also entitled to seek damages for lost wages, pain and suffering, and other considerations.
Contact a Durham Cancer Misdiagnosis Attorney
At the Law Offices of Wade E. Byrd, P.A., our North Carolina delayed diagnosis of skin cancer attorney has helped many people who have suffered due to a doctor's error. We seek full and fair compensation from all responsible parties. Contact our office today for a free initial consultation. You can reach us by phone at 866-508-3689 or send us an e-mail to schedule an appointment.
