Elizabeth Larner has reached a settlement of £17,500 on behalf of a client who was wrongly told that a lump in her breast was cancerous.

The lady was seen at the Defendant Trust for an ultrasound and a core biopsy, following her noting a lump in her breast. She was told that the sample was highly unlikely to be cancerous. 

12 days later she was told that the biopsy had suggested a breast cancer, and that surgery was required to remove the lump. A day later she was told that the clinical, radiological and histological findings were inconsistent with one another, and that the biopsy sample may have related to a different patient. 

A repeat ultrasound and core biopsy was undertaken a day later, which was reported to be a fibroadenoma (a benign lump). Three weeks later, the lady was told that there was still some confusion over the initial biopsy and that, for certainty, the lump should be excised.

Four weeks after surgery, the lady was told that the excised lump was benign, and that testing confirmed that she had never had breast cancer and that the sample did not belong to her. 

The Claimant underwent surgery, which caused unnecessary, unsightly scarring. She was diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder as a result of her experience, for which psychological therapy was recommended. A financial award was secured as part of her claim to allow her to undergo psychological therapy, as well as compensation for the unnecessary procedures associated with the misdiagnosis.  

The lady said “I felt completely supported throughout my claim. Liz was able to explain everything to me as and when I needed and also reassure me when I was heading into my resolutions meeting which I found very comforting. Throughout the process Liz was attentive and very quick to respond with any worries with real care. Thank you Liz for helping me through this process“

Elizabeth Larner said “I was delighted to be able to resolve this claim within 8 months of instruction, and to be able to secure funds to enable this lady to have psychological therapy so that she can hopefully recover following this very traumatic chapter of her life”. 

Speak to Elizabeth Larner

Elizabeth is a Partner at Wollens and can advise you. Contact Elizabeth via email Elizabeth.Larner@wollens.co.uk or call 01803 225135.

You can also complete an online enquiry form. One of the Wollens team will contact you as soon as they are available.