Did you know that about 13% of American women are expected to develop breast cancer at some point in their lives? It is one of the most common cancers affecting women, and it afflicts men as well.
Unfortunately, breast cancer can be misdiagnosed by healthcare professionals and contributes to medical malpractice claims in Georgia. Part of the reason is that the condition resembles other illnesses, and certain things can interfere with diagnostic measures.
Fibrocystic changes
As young women get older, their breasts undergo age-related changes, often developing fibrocystic cysts. These cysts or lumps are usually benign, but many symptoms associated with cysts also appear in breast cancer. For example, nipple discharge and swelling or pain occur in both conditions. Often, breast cancer patients initially receive a cyst diagnosis.
Pregnancy changes
When women become pregnant, their breasts typically change to accommodate the expected new arrival. However, these normal changes can interfere with the ability to obtain an accurate diagnosis. These hardships can leave pregnant women vulnerable to a delay in diagnosis and treatment.
Breastfeeding and mastitis
Mastitis is a clogged duct infection that occurs in many breastfeeding women. Its symptoms can mimic inflammatory breast cancer and may include the examples below.
- Hot and itchy skin
- Development of a lump
- Breast tissue redness and inflammation
You may feel relieved after getting diagnosed with something other than breast cancer but seek a second opinion to be sure. If your physician made an error when diagnosing your condition, you might qualify for a medical malpractice claim.
Since medical professionals must take reasonable steps to prevent patient harm, a cancer misdiagnosis may be grounds for a medical malpractice claim. The compensation you obtain helps to ensure you get the treatment you need.
