SKIN CANCER : MEDICAL NEGLIGENCE




If a skin lesion persists for several months and does not heal then it should be investigated. Skin cancer affects the epidermis, causing lesions to occur which, if not treated can spread the cancer cells into nearby organs. Having any suspicious skin lesion is reason enough to consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis.


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Diagnosis


For definitive diagnosis of skin cancer it is necessary to perform a biopsy whereby a sample of tissue is examined under a microscope. This procedure is usually carried out under a local anesthetic. Since virulent forms of skin cancer pose a risk to the life of a patient any persistent skin lesions localised in the parts of the body exposed to the sun’s rays like the face and hand area should be attended to immediately by a dermatologist. Most NHS hospitals have surgical facilities wherein a skin biopsy can be performed. A skin biopsy may be taken by shaving off a thin layer of the epidermis. A deep sample of tissue can also be taken using a needle-like instrument or taking a layer through an incision made in the lesion area.


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False Positive


There is always the possibility of getting a positive result from these tests even if there is no disease present. This presents a diagnosis that is false and subsequently entails a lot of unnecessary pain both physical and emotional on the part of the patient. Unnecessary radiotherapy and other medications may cause long term effects on the patient’s health. A false positive result can also cause much stress and anxiety for the patient because of the belief that they have skin cancer.


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