New York patients may be dismayed to learn that approximately 31 percent of all pancreatic cancer patients are initially misdiagnosed, according to a study published in 2015. The study was led by a University of Utah surgery resident.
New York patients may be dismayed to learn that approximately 31 percent of all pancreatic cancer patients are initially misdiagnosed, according to a study published in 2015. The study was led by a University of Utah surgery resident.
Researchers studied 313 pancreatic cancer patients and found that 98 were initially misdiagnosed with another ailment. The most common misdiagnosis was gallbladder disease, followed by gastroesophageal reflux disease and peptic ulcer disease. Misdiagnosed patients were found to be an average of five years younger than patients who were correctly diagnosed.
The study found patients who were initially misdiagnosed were much more likely to suffer abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, weight loss and pancreatitis. Misdiagnosed patients were also significantly less likely to suffer from jaundice. However, misdiagnosed and correctly diagnosed patients suffered diarrhea and anorexia at similar rates. Researchers also discovered that it took misdiagnosed patients around 3.5 months to receive a proper diagnosis, compared to less than one month for correctly diagnosed patients. Misdiagnosed patients were 1.4 times more likely to be diagnosed with stage III or IV pancreatic cancer, but their survival rates were not worse than those who had been properly diagnosed at earlier stages.
A delayed diagnosis can lead to a worsened condition and negatively impact a patient’s chances of recovery. As a result, it may be advisable to file a medical malpractice lawsuit against the negligent doctor and/or hospital responsible for the error. Such patients could learn more about their legal options by consulting with an attorney.
Source: Family Practice News, “DDW: Study finds pancreatic cancer misdiagnosis rate at 31%,” Elizabeth Mechcatie, July 6, 2015
