New York City Vulva Cancer Malpractice Lawyer
The vulva is a term that encompasses all of the exterior structures of the female external genitalia. Just like any other part of the body, the vulva can develop cancer and when it does, it can have tragic consequences. Also as with other parts of the body, early detection is critical when it comes to vulva cancer. This type of cancer is fairly rare, but the consequences are still devastating. If you believe that your cancer advanced due to medical negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. Below, our New York City vulva cancer malpractice lawyer explains the most common symptoms and the legal recourse available.
Common Symptoms of Vulva Cancer
One of the most common signs of vulva cancer is itching and a change of color in the skin. Skin of the vulva may appear red, white, or dark brown. When the disease is in its more advanced stages, the groin nodes may also become enlarged. Unfortunately, there is no one test that can categorically and definitively identify vulva cancer. The only way to have this condition diagnosed is through a physical examination, which should be conducted by a gynecological oncologist. The oncologist should also take a full family and medical history to identify if a patient has certain risk factors.
How is Vulva Cancer Misdiagnosed?
Like other types of cancers, it is not uncommon for vulva cancer to be misdiagnosed. Some of the most common ways this type of cancer is misdiagnosed are as follows:
- Failure to obtain an accurate medical or family history,
- Failure to adequately examine the patient,
- Failure to refer a woman to a gynecological oncologist for additional exams and advice from an expert in the field, and
- Misinterpretations of examination results.
In some cases, a woman may also be mistakenly diagnosed with vulva cancer when in fact, they do not have it. This can result in mutilating surgery which is not only unnecessary, but can also severely impact a woman’s psychosexual function.
The Long-Term Impacts of a Misdiagnosis
Fortunately, the survival rate for vulva cancer is fairly high, but it is not as straightforward as it may seem. When vulva cancer is diagnosed in its later stages, it may require the vulva to be removed in its entirety. It can also require a great deal of skin grafting, which is another procedure that is not only incredibly invasive, but painful, as well. Even though vulva cancer is more difficult to detect than other types of cancer, this is no excuse for medical negligence that severely impacts a woman’s life.
Our Vulva Cancer Malpractice Lawyer in New York City Can Help After Injury
If your doctor made a mistake and you suffered serious harm as a result, our New York City vulva cancer malpractice lawyer at Michael Gunzburg, P.C. can help. We know how to investigate these cases to prove malpractice occurred so you obtain the full and fair damages that are justly yours. Call us today at 212-725-8500 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to get more of the information you need.
