Misdiagnosis of ear cancers
Cancer is one of the leading diseases afflicting residents of Ohio and throughout the United States. Unfortunately, every year people are misdiagnosed when it comes to different types of cancer, including cancers associated with the ear.
Common Types of cancer afflicting the ear
There are a pair of cancers that most commonly impact a person’s ear. These are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Because of the serious nature of both of these types of cancer, an early diagnosis is crucial in order to optimize treatment and recovery prospects. Unfortunately, a misdiagnosis of these cancers when associated with a person’s ear happens with some alarming regularity.
Identifying ear cancer
Skin cancer impacting a person’s ear typically initially is identified as a result of some sort of unusual growth at the ear. A person who detects such a growth should seek medical attention with all deliberate speed. There are specific protocols a physician reasonably should follow if this type of growth in a patient is present. This includes additional testing of the growth at an individual’s ear.
Misdiagnosis and untreated skin cancer involving an ear
If a misdiagnosis occurs and skin cancer involving the ear is not treated properly, the cancer has the potential to readily spread. Skin cancer involving an ear can spread to the inner ear, temporal bone, facial nerves and to other locations as well. If misdiagnosed, these types of cancer can prove deadly.
If you or a loved one have suffered a misdiagnosis of cancer involving an ear, you should promptly consult with a medical malpractice lawyer to ascertain your legal rights. Of course, you need to make sure your health issues are addressed as well.