The signs and symptoms of skin cancer are often visible, yet they are not always recognized or properly evaluated by physicians. Because skin cancer frequently begins with small changes in the skin, early detection is essential to positive outcomes. When a doctor fails to properly examine or investigate such changes, though, the disease may progress unchecked, leading to significant harm. If you or a loved one sustained losses because a physician neglected to address the signs and symptoms of skin cancer, you have the right to pursue claims for compensation, and you should consult an attorney. The experienced Syracuse medical malpractice attorneys of DeFrancisco & Falgiatano LLP Cancer Lawyers take pride in advocating for victims of medical negligence, and if you hire us, we will fight for the justice you deserve. We frequently represent patients in cancer malpractice cases in Syracuse, Rochester, and throughout Upstate New York.
Understanding the Signs and Symptoms of Skin CancerThe signs and symptoms of skin cancer usually appear in areas of the body that are exposed to the sun, but they can develop anywhere. One of the most common early indicators is the appearance of a new mole or a change in the size, color, or shape of an existing one. The medical community often refers to the “ABCDE” characteristics of melanoma, which include asymmetry, irregular borders, uneven coloration, large diameter, and evolving changes in appearance.
Other forms of skin cancer, such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, may present as scaly patches, open sores that do not heal, raised bumps with a pearly sheen, or lesions that bleed easily. Patients may also notice itching, pain, or tenderness in the affected area. Although these signs and symptoms of skin cancer can be alarming, they are sometimes dismissed as benign skin conditions like rashes or infections.
When doctors fail to take these changes seriously by performing biopsies or ordering dermatologic evaluations, patients can lose critical time. Delays in diagnosis may permit the cancer to invade deeper layers of skin and spread through the bloodstream or lymphatic system, drastically reducing the chances of successful treatment.
Proving Negligence in a Skin Cancer Malpractice CasePatients harmed by a physician’s failure to diagnose skin cancer have the right to pursue damages through a medical malpractice lawsuit. Typically, they will do so via negligence claims. To establish negligence under New York law, a plaintiff must demonstrate that the defendant owed them a duty of care, that the defendant breached that duty, causation, and damages.
In a medical malpractice case, duty refers to the defendant’s obligation to provide medical care consistent with accepted professional standards. A breach occurs when the defendant fails to uphold this standard.
Causation requires the plaintiff to prove that the defendant’s failure allowed the cancer to progress to a more severe stage, thereby causing the plaintiff to suffer actual harm. Expert testimony is generally required in cancer malpractice cases, with dermatologists or oncologists explaining how the doctor’s actions deviated from accepted medical practices and how an earlier diagnosis could have changed the patient’s outcome.
Recoverable Damages in Skin Cancer Misdiagnosis LawsuitsThe damages available in a successful skin cancer malpractice claim can be extensive. Plaintiffs may recover compensation for past and future medical expenses, including the costs of surgeries, hospital stays, medications, and follow-up care. A plaintiff can also recover lost wages and diminished earning capacity if the defendant’s negligence prevented them from continuing their careers. They may be awarded non-economic damages as well, which compensate for the broader impact of negligence, including physical pain, emotional distress, disfigurement, and reduced enjoyment of life.
Speak with a Skilled Cancer Malpractice Attorney in Syracuse, Rochester, or Upstate New YorkSkin cancer typically responds well to treatment, but if it goes undetected, it can progress, leading to poor outcomes. If you or a family member suffered harm because a doctor ignored or failed to investigate the signs and symptoms of skin cancer, you may be entitled to compensation, and you should talk to an attorney. At DeFrancisco & Falgiatano LLP Cancer Lawyers, our skilled Syracuse medical malpractice attorneys have extensive experience representing patients in complex medical malpractice cases, and if we represent you, we will diligently pursue any damages you may be owed. Our main office is in Syracuse, and we represent injured parties in Syracuse, Rochester, and throughout Upstate New York. To schedule a free and confidential consultation, contact us online or call 833-200-2000 today.