Can I Sue the NHS for Delayed Diagnosis of TB Meningitis?
A failure to investigate symptoms of TB meningitis can leave the patient with life-limiting and permanent symptoms which might justify a claim for compensation.
The function of the meninges
The meninges are the layers of matter which protect the brain and the spinal cord which house the central nervous system. They surround the brain beneath the skull and, along with the cerebrospinal fluid around the brain, act as a buffer against trauma.
Damage to the meninges can result from infection, inflammation, abscess, tumour and trauma. If the function of the meninges becomes compromised, the protection of the brain and central nervous system may start to fail and the individual affected is in danger of suffering epilepsy, a stroke and permanent, debilitating brain damage.
Tubercular meningitis
TB Meningitis occurs when tubercular bacteria spread through the bloodstream from elsewhere in the body, probably the lungs, and begin to cause havoc in the meninges around the brain.
TB meningitis can develop slowly and its symptoms might, at an early stage, be easily mistaken for other, less sinister conditions. Such is the potential impact of this horrific condition, however, that every step should be taken to try and ensure a prompt diagnosis.
The longer diagnosis is delayed, the more severe the patient's long-term outcome is likely to be.
Diagnosis and treatment
Once symptoms have raised the suspicion that the patient might be developing TB meningitis, further investigation and a confirmed diagnosis are needed urgently. This involves the analysis of the cerebrospinal fluid for signs that the patient is developing meningitis.
The patient is likely to require hospitalisation and the administration of a combination of medications including antibiotics to try to resolve their condition. If caught promptly, there is a possibility that they may make a full recovery.
Diagnosis can be difficult due to the non-specific nature of the symptoms such as headaches, vomiting, a stiff neck, fever, nausea and confusion but a willingness to investigate can be crucial.
The patient's context may be significant if, for example, they have had recent contact with someone who is suffering from tuberculosis. Cases of tuberculosis have been increasing in the UK over the past fifteen years and the possibility that the patient has been at risk of infection may be significant in diagnosing their symptoms.
Medical negligence
A failure to recognise the possible significance of the patient's symptoms, leading to a delay in referral and investigation may be considered as substandard care.
If the patient suffers a poor long-term outcome, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Speak to a solicitor
If a loved one has suffered the shocking and permanent impact of TB meningitis due to a delay in acting on their symptoms, contact Glynns today to talk to a specialist medical negligence solicitor.
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