Leukaemia Misdiagnosis - Medical Negligence Solicitors
Leukaemia is cancer of the white blood cells which are produced by bone marrow. The four main types of leukaemia are chronic myeloid, acute myeloid, chronic lymphocytic and acute lymphoblastic. The acute conditions come on suddenly, progress quickly and need urgent treatment whereas the chronic conditions develop slowly often over years. Symptoms include anaemia, frequent bruising, infections and abnormal bleeding.
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Diasgnosis
Diagnosis of leukaemia is by analysis and microscopic examination of a blood sample however in the case of lymphocytic leukaemia it is necessary to take and examine a sample of bone marrow using biopsy techniques for confirmation. The most likely source of misdiagnosis of leukaemia is in the doctor’s surgery at which time the initial symptoms may be dismissed as unimportant or may be attributed to another less serious illness. Failure to arrange for follow up tests by a doctor is medical negligence. The main treatment used for leukaemia is chemotherapy often in conjunction with a bone marrow or stem cell transplant. The high doses of chemical used to kill the cancer also kills the bone marrow which produces new white blood cells thereby necessitating a bone marrow or stem cell transplant. Survival rates for adult victims of leukaemia are poor especially if the condition is not diagnosed or is misdiagnosed thereby ensuring that treatment is not started at an early stage. The key to survival with all cancers is early diagnosis and early treatment.