Cervical Cancer

Understanding the Disease and Potential Medical Malpractice with the Baltimore Cervical Cancer Lawyer

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that affects the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. While significant strides have been made in prevention and early detection, it remains a serious health concern for women. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cervical cancer, then understanding the disease and the potential for medical malpractice is crucial. If you have been injured by a delay in diagnosis, then you may need the Baltimore cervical cancer lawyer at the Kopec Law Firm.

Understanding the Cervix

The cervix is a cylindrical-shaped organ about an inch long. It has two main parts:

• The ectocervix: This is the lower part of the cervix that connects to the vagina. It is covered by squamous cells.
• The endocervix: This is the upper part of the cervix that connects to the uterus. It is lined with glandular cells.

The cervix plays a vital role in the reproductive system. It specifically acts as a barrier between the vagina and the uterus, preventing bacteria and other organisms from entering the uterus. During childbirth, the cervix dilates to allow the baby to pass through.

Cervical Cancer: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Symptoms

Cervical cancer symptoms generally may include:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding, including bleeding after sex, between periods, or after menopause
• Pelvic pain or discomfort
• Abnormal vaginal discharge
• Pain during intercourse

Early diagnosis is critical, so it is essential to see a doctor for any concerns.  

Diagnosis

Several tests can help diagnose cervical cancer:

• Pap smear: This test collects cells from the cervix for examination under a microscope.
• HPV test: This test checks for the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common sexually transmitted infection that can cause cervical cancer.
• Colposcopy: This procedure uses a magnifying instrument to examine the cervix.
• Cervical biopsy: This involves removing a small piece of tissue from the cervix for examination.

Doctors Involved in Diagnosis

• Obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN): This is typically the first doctor to see about concerns related to the cervix and reproductive system.
• Pathologist: A pathologist examines tissue samples to diagnose cancer.

Treatment

Options for treatment of cervical cancer depend on the stage of the cancer, the patient’s overall health, and personal preferences. Treatment may include:

• Surgery: This may involve removing the cervix, uterus, and sometimes nearby lymph nodes.
• Radiation therapy: This uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy: This uses drugs to kill cancer cells.
• Combination therapy: This combines two or more treatments.

Doctors Involved in Treatment

• Gynecologic oncologist: A specialist in treating cancers of the female reproductive system.
• Radiation oncologist: A specialist in radiation therapy.
• Medical oncologist: A specialist in chemotherapy.

Prognosis and the Need for the Baltimore Cervical Cancer Lawyer

The outlook for cervical cancer depends on several factors, including the stage of the cancer when it is diagnosed, the type of cancer, and the patient’s overall health. Early detection and treatment significantly improve the chances of successful treatment.

Medical Malpractice with the Baltimore Cervical Cancer Lawyer

Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider fails to provide reasonable care, resulting in harm to a patient. In the context of cervical cancer, potential medical malpractice claims may include:

• Failure to diagnose: If a doctor fails to detect abnormal cells or precancerous conditions during a Pap smear or other screening test, it can lead to a delayed diagnosis and more advanced cancer.
• Misdiagnosis: Incorrectly diagnosing cervical cancer as another condition can result in delayed or inappropriate treatment.
• Treatment errors: Surgical errors, and other errors during radiation therapy, or chemotherapy can cause serious complications and harm.
• Failure to inform about risks: Last, doctors have a duty to inform patients about the potential risks and benefits of treatment options. Failure to do so can be grounds for a medical malpractice claim.

Next Step: Call the Baltimore Cervical Cancer Lawyer

If you believe you or a loved one may have been a victim of medical malpractice related to cervical cancer, then it is essential to consult with an experienced medical malpractice attorney. We can evaluate your case, gather evidence, and also help you pursue compensation for your damages.

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.