Ankylosing Spondylitis Diagnosis Delays and Compensation
A delay in diagnosing ankylosing spondylitis may allow a range of destructive complications to develop which could perhaps have been treated with an earlier diagnosis.
Ankylosing spondylitis implications
Ankylosing spondylitis can be a severely debilitating condition. Although there is currently no cure, early diagnosis may allow associated complications to be identified and treated in a timely manner, preventing further problems.
A condition which causes inflammation in the spine and elsewhere in the body, ankylosing spondylitis can be a factor in the development of other distressing conditions.
For example, ankylosing spondylitis may lead to the development of the following debilitating conditions:
- Cauda equina syndrome – if inflammation of the spine causes compression of the cauda equina nerves at the base of the spine, the victim can suffer loss of mobility and double incontinence. If diagnosed at an early stage, decompression surgery can relieve the pressure on the nerves and allow the patient to recover function. A delay in recognising the problem, may mean that the patient's disabling symptoms become permanent.
- Osteoporosis can develop in the spine as a result of ankylosing spondylitis, leading to a fracture and possible long-term disability and the need for surgery
- Iritis can be associated with ankylosing spondylitis and, without treatment, can cause permanent loss of vision.
Medical negligence and compensation
If a patient suffers long-term disability and financial losses due to substandard medical care, they are entitled to make a claim for compensation.
If a medical professional has the opportunity to make a diagnosis or arrange for further investigation of symptoms, but fails to do so, the patient may suffer as a result.
The law then entitles the patient to be restored to the financial position they would have experienced had the negligent care not occurred.
Claiming compensation
Compensation claims for medical negligence are extremely complex, requiring the skills of a specialist lawyer and the input of the best medical experts.
If you think that you or a loved one may have been the victim of substandard medical care, the first step is to speak to a specialist medical negligence solicitor. They will be able to judge the validity of your claim and advise you as to the best way forward.
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with a team of experienced lawyers.
Contact us to discuss your situation with a view to assessing the suitability of making a claim for compensation.
Please call us free on 0800 234 3300 or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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