Rectal cancer

Understanding the Disease with the Baltimore Rectal Cancer Lawyer

Understanding Rectal Cancer

Rectal cancer is a type of colon cancer that develops in the rectum, the final six inches of the large intestine. The rectum is responsible for storing stool before it is eliminated from the body. Delay in diagnosing rectal cancer can result in a medical malpractice claim, and consequently, the need for the Baltimore rectal cancer lawyer at the Kopec Law Firm.

Anatomy and Function of the Rectum

The rectum is a muscular tube that connects the sigmoid colon to the anus. Its lining is a mucous membrane that helps to lubricate the passage of stool. The rectum is also equipped with nerves that help to control the sphincter muscles, which regulate the passage of stool from the body.

Symptoms of Rectal Cancer

The symptoms of rectal cancer generally can vary depending on the stage of the disease. However, some common symptoms include:

• Blood in your stool: This can be bright red or dark.
• Change in bowel habits: This may include diarrhea, constipation, or a feeling of incomplete bowel movements.
• Pain or discomfort in the rectum: This may be a cramping or burning sensation.
• Fatigue: This is a common symptom of many types of cancer, including rectal cancer.
• Weight loss: This may occur if the cancer is interfering with your ability to eat or absorb nutrients.

Seeking Medical Help

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, then it is important to see a doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment of rectal cancer can significantly improve your prognosis.

Diagnosis of Rectal Cancer

Several tests may be used to diagnose rectal cancer, including:

• Digital rectal exam: This involves the doctor inserting a finger into your rectum to feel for any abnormalities.
• Sigmoidoscopy: This procedure involves inserting a flexible tube with a light and camera into your rectum to examine the lower part of your large intestine.
• Colonoscopy: This procedure involves inserting a flexible tube with a light and camera into your colon to examine the entire length of your large intestine.
• Biopsy: This procedure involves taking a sample of tissue from the affected area for testing.

Treatment Option Discussion with the Baltimore Rectal Cancer Lawyer

The treatment for rectal cancer will depend on the stage of the disease and your overall health. Common treatments include:

• Surgery: This may involve removing the tumor and part of the rectum. In some cases, a colostomy may be necessary, which involves diverting stool to a bag outside of your body.
• Radiation therapy: This involves using high-energy X-rays to kill cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy: This involves using drugs to kill cancer cells.
• Targeted therapy: This involves using drugs that target specific molecules involved in the growth and survival of cancer cells.  
• Immunotherapy: This involves using the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells.

At the Kopec Law Firm, we will discuss with you the treatment you received and examine whether the underlying diagnosis was delayed.

Medical Providers Involved in Rectal Cancer Treatment

Several medical providers may be involved in your rectal cancer treatment, including:

• Colorectal Surgeon: This is a surgeon who specializes in treating diseases of the colon and rectum.
• Medical oncologist: This is a doctor who specializes in treating cancer with chemotherapy and other medications.
• Radiation oncologist: This is a doctor who specializes in treating cancer with radiation therapy.
• Gastroenterologist: This is a doctor who specializes in treating diseases of the digestive system.

Prognosis for Rectal Cancer

The prognosis for rectal cancer depends on several factors, including the stage of the disease, the type of treatment, and your overall health. However, with early diagnosis and treatment, the prognosis for rectal cancer is generally good.

Medical Malpractice Claims with the Baltimore Rectal Cancer Lawyer

If you believe that your rectal cancer diagnosis or treatment was delayed or mismanaged, then you may have a medical malpractice claim. Some common types of medical malpractice claims related to rectal cancer include:

• Delayed diagnosis: This occurs when a doctor fails to diagnose rectal cancer in a timely manner, allowing the disease to progress to a more advanced stage.
• Misdiagnosis: This occurs when a doctor misdiagnoses rectal cancer as another condition.
• Incorrect treatment: This occurs when a doctor provides inappropriate or ineffective treatment for rectal cancer.
• Surgical Errors: This occurs when a surgeon makes mistakes during surgery, such as leaving behind surgical instruments or damaging nearby organs.

Next Step: Call the Baltimore Rectal Cancer Lawyer

If you are considering filing a medical malpractice claim, then it is important to consult with an experienced attorney. We can help you understand your legal rights and options and can represent you in court if necessary.

If your doctor failed to diagnose rectal cancer early, then visit the free consultation page or video. Then contact the Kopec Law Firm at 800-604-0704 to speak directly with Attorney Mark Kopec. He is a top-rated Baltimore medical malpractice lawyer. The Kopec Law Firm is in Baltimore and pursues cases throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C.