What is Prostate Cancer?
The prostate gland is part of the male reproductive system, found at the base of the bladder. It produces a protein called prostate specific antigen (PSA). High levels of PSA may be a sign of prostate cancer.
Prostate cancer occurs when genetic mutations in the prostate gland cause cells to grow uncontrollably and form tumors. Most prostate cancers start in the outer gland cells of the prostate. Prostate cancer is most common in older men and is more common in Black men than in White men. It is the most common cancer in the UK.
Symptoms and Detection of Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is checked through a PSA blood test and a digital rectal examination. If the results of these tests are abnormal, an MRI is often used to get a clear picture of the prostate. A biopsy is usually done to confirm diagnosis.
Common Symptoms of Prostate Cancer may include:
- Blood in urine or semen
- Weak or interrupted urine stream
- Trouble emptying bladder
- Trouble starting or stopping urine flow
- Needing to urinate more frequently than normal
- Pain in the back, hips or bones that doesn’t go away
When Could Prostate Cancer Be Medical Negligence?
In some cases, prostate cancer may be misdiagnosed or diagnosed too late due to medical errors. When this happens, it may be possible to bring a medical negligence claim.
Failures in diagnosis:
- A failure to recognise signs and symptoms, and so not considering the possibility of prostate cancer
- A failure to undertake appropriate investigations such as a PSA test or a digital rectal examination when necessary
- A delay in referral to urology
Errors in testing and interpretation:
- Misinterpretation of results, such as PSA levels or MRI scans
- Inadequate biopsy procedure
Delays and treatment issues:
- General delays in diagnosis and commencing of treatment
- Treatment errors once cancer is detected
- Failure to investigate metastasis (cancer spread) when indicated
How can we help with a Prostate Cancer Negligence Claim?
If you believe your prostate cancer was misdiagnosed or diagnosed late, you may be entitled to make a medical negligence claim.
Contact us for a free initial consultation. Every case is different, and we would advise you to call one of our friendly team members to discuss your matter confidentially and with no obligation.
Get the answers you deserve today by calling our team on 0800 987 8800 or emailing us at medneg@bmcf.co.uk. Alternatively, speak to a medical negligence solicitor near you by finding your nearest office.