There were 81,610 new cases of kidney cancer diagnosed in 2004. In the same year, the National Foundation for Cancer Research reported an estimated 14,390 deaths.
With kidney cancer having similar symptoms to kidney stones and urine infections, there are cases when this disease is misdiagnosed.
And when it happens, it increases the chance of the cancer getting worse.
When care providers are unable to collect enough information to reach an accurate diagnosis, patients are the ones who suffer.
So, knowing how your disease could be misdiagnosed and what to do is vital.
Let’s discuss the common medical errors that can result in kidney cancer misdiagnosis.
Misinterpretation of Imaging Studies
Misunderstandings of imaging studies by doctors can lead to significant delays in diagnosing kidney cancer. Naturally, waiting for an answer could well evoke feelings of frustration or fear, particularly in case the problem is personal and has to do with one’s health.
Imaging tests include CT scans or MRIs, which are necessary for knowing whether one has a tumor. During the surgery, the doctor may also fail to discern the lesions or misdiagnose them as having benign characteristics. Such a mishap may consist of the misinterpretation of radiographs or MRIs of the lesion and result in making the patient forgo treatment necessary for
their life-threatening condition.
Naturally, a medical malpractice case can damage professional reputations, making hospitals and medical providers resist paying fair compensation, says a medical malpractice attorney in Shreveport, LA. But for lawyers who handle your case, your future is important.
Always advocate for your health and get a second opinion if you suspect something is off. You are entitled to have information concerning your health accurately delivered.
Failure to Recognize Risk Factors
A number of risk factors for kidney cancer are often recognized by doctors. The family history of cancer, especially an assembly history of kidney cancer, increased blood pressure, or obesity in the patient, should be discussed with a doctor. Doctors are often clueless in attributing symptoms of kidney cancer due to its vagueness. It will not be a bad idea to share the concerns and risk factors with your doctor at each visit.
Proactively advocating for yourself will most likely help your physician to be aware of your health history. Remember, you deserve the overall care that looks at your complete wellness for those risk factors.
Overlooking Subtle Symptoms
Minor symptoms can sometimes be ignored when undergoing medical evaluation. Little
changes that occur within your body may have provoked slight pain or exhaustion.
People usually brush off minor symptoms and ignore them after a couple of days.
It is not only essential but fundamental to consider the notion of bridging the gap.
Such a relation, in which you are allowed an opinion and conversation, may evolve into something valuable if there are a few issues you feel are serious.
Your opinion always matters. Paying attention to the smallest things could lead to the early revelation of kidney cancer.
Inadequate Communication Among Healthcare
Providers Poor communication among healthcare providers can lead to huge misdiagnosis rates in conditions such as in the case of kidney cancer.
A healthcare provider refusing to share pertinent information concerning a patient’s health with another provider constitutes negligence and renders it impossible for anyone to have an overview of the patient’s state of health.
For instance, if a primary care doctor fails to accurately deliver symptoms or test results to the specialist, there is a possibility that important references may get lost.
Confusion and a feeling of being in the lurch in your health journey may creep up on you. Patients must experience clear communication within a healthcare team for correct diagnosis and its management.
Delayed Referral to Specialists
A poor or delayed referral to highly specialized care can significantly hinder the accurate diagnosis and management of kidney cancer. This scenario applies when your general practitioner does not refer you in time for follow-up imaging to a urologist or an oncologist.
A delayed referral can be frustrating since you are clearly seeking help yet the doctor remains unbothered and unhelpful. The suspicious amount of time it takes makes a difference for future treatment choices.
Advocate for yourself by expressing your grievances and requesting a referral. Make multiple calls if needed. Keep in mind the importance of time needed in getting appropriate medical care, because that could be a definite net gain for you.