Long Island, Manhattan Accident Attorney Blog

Delayed Colorectal Cancer Diagnosis

Colorectal cancer is a slow progressing illness that often has no symptoms during the early stages.  That is one reason why this cancer is often misdiagnosed.

This type of cancer refers to cancer of the colon or rectum.  Even though symptoms take a while to develop, there are some warning signs of colorectal cancer.  These signs include rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, diarrhea, constipation, cramping, gas, abdominal pain, fatigue, weakness and unexplained weight loss.

Doctors sometimes mistakenly believe that the symptoms of colorectal cancer are being caused by a less serious condition, such as hemorrhoids.  If there is a delayed diagnosis of colorectal cancer, the opportunity for certain treatments may be unavailable.  The earlier this disease is caught, the better the prognosis.
 
A colonoscopy is the test most commonly used to diagnose colorectal cancer.  This procedure allows the doctor to examine the inside of your colon and rectum using a scope.   If needed, the doctor will take tissue samples that will be used to detect signs of cancer.

If you or someone you love has suffered from a cancer misdiagnosis, you may be able to hold the medical provider accountable.  You should contact a New York medical malpractice attorney at the law firm of Rappaport, Glass, Greene & Levine at 800-734-9445 for legal advice.  Also read the article, “Misdiagnosed Colorectal Cancer Can Be Deadly,” for more information.