Irwin Mitchell’s expert Medical Negligence team helped to secure a five-figure sum of compensation for a woman who lost her sight after delays in diagnosing and treating giant cell arteritis.
Giant cell arteritis is a condition which makes the medium and large arteries, usually in the head and neck, become inflamed. It tends to affect adults over the age of 50. Without urgent medical attention and prompt treatment, giant cell arteritis can lead to permanent visual impairments.
We represented Mrs D, a retired 71-year-old lady, who became very unwell with symptoms of tenderness around her temple and on one side of her face. Mrs D also developed severe scalp and jaw pain on the same side. Her symptoms worsened over several weeks and she was admitted to her local hospital.
Despite Mrs D telling her doctors about her symptoms on several occasions, no further investigations were carried out and she was simply prescribed painkillers. Approximately one week after being discharged for the hospital, Mrs D permanently lost her sight in one eye.
We instructed experts to gather evidence on Mrs D’s behalf. It was found that the giant cell arteritis should have been suspected, diagnosed and then treated with a course of high dose steroids. If this course of action had been taken, Mrs D would have avoided any loss of sight.
Our solicitor Anna Vroobel, under the supervision of Partner Amanda Stevens, negotiated with the hospital Trust and managed to secure compensation for Mrs D in accordance with her pain, suffering and loss of amenity.
In relation to the case, Anna said: “Mrs D’s condition was entirely treatable and her injuries should have been avoided. We are pleased to have secured an early settlement to compensate Mrs D so she can put the negligence behind her.”
Mr D said: “I’m thrilled with the outcome and so very impressed by Anna’s handling of the case. She is efficient, eloquent, determined and her attention to detail is second to none.”
If you or a loved one has suffered due to a delayed or misdiagnosed medical condition, our medical negligence solicitors could help you claim compensation. See our Medical Misdiagnosis Claims page for more information.
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