Melanoma is the most common form of skin cancer and is among the most curable varieties. Approximately 100,000 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, 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.
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, 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 cancer can spread into the lymph nodes. Aggressive treatment, including radiation and/or chemotherapy, is usually required and the survival rate drops considerably.
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.
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 Fayetteville office today for a free initial consultation. You can reach us by phone at 910-323-2555 or send us an email to schedule an appointment.