Misdiagnosis of Necrotising Fasciitis Symptoms
A swift diagnosis of, or suspicion of, necrotising fasciitis, leading to an emergency referral to hospital, may prove crucial to the patient's survival. A misdiagnosis may justify a claim for compensation.
Possible symptoms of necrotising fasciitis
Symptoms which might indicate that the patient is developing a soft-tissue infection could include the following:
- Intense pain, especially in the region of a wound or cut to the skin
- Redness and swelling in the same region
- Tenderness in the same area
Such symptoms may be particularly significant in the following circumstances:
- In a patient who has recently undergone surgery or a surgical procedure or who has suffered an injury to the skin. The patient may have an abscess or a pressure sore.
- Where the symptoms are present either in one of the limbs or extremities, or in the abdomen. Although this appalling infection can occur anywhere in the body, it is most likely to occur in these locations or around the genitals.
A patient who is developing a necrotising fasciitis infection requires emergency treatment in the form of antibiotics and surgical debridement (or removal) of all infected tissue.
The sooner such treatment is commenced, the better the outcome is likely to be for the patient.
A delay in initiating treatment may lead to an extended stay in hospital and intensive care, extensive loss of tissue, increased scarring and disability and the greater likelihood of dying from the infection.
Misdiagnosis of symptoms
Where the delay is due to misdiagnosis of the patient's symptoms or a failure to assess the patient's symptoms thoroughly, the relevant medical professionals may be regarded as having been negligent.
The patient may be sent home with pain-relief or reassurances as to their condition when, in fact, they should be on their way to hospital for immediate attention.
Claiming compensation for medical negligence
If a delay in treatment for necrotising fasciitis due to a misdiagnosis causes the patient to suffer a poor long-term outcome, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation. This can provide recompense for the financial losses which the patient has incurred due to their poor care, such as loss of income due to inability to work.
If you have been the victim of substandard care of necrotising fasciitis, you will need specialist advice.
Glynns Solicitors is a specialist medical negligence legal practice with considerable experience of supporting necrotising fasciitis compensation claims.
Contact us today to talk to one of our team of experienced solicitors about the suitability of making a claim for compensation.
Please call us free on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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