Misdiagnosis of Fournier's Gangrene and Claiming Compensation
Failing to recognise the symptoms of fournier's gangrene or providing a misdiagnosis can lead rapidly to a catastrophic outcome for the patient. It may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Fournier's gangrene - a medical emergency
Fournier's gangrene is the product of a soft tissue infection which causes the decay and death of all tissue it infects. Elsewhere in the body, it is referred to as necrotising fasciitis but fournier's gangrene is the form which specifically affects the perineal and genital region.
This appalling illness not only destroys the body's tissue but spreads with alarming speed through the connective tissue to other parts of the body. Without swift diagnosis and emergency treatment, it can result in the death of the patient. It is associated with a high mortality rate which is only prevented by prompt surgery to remove all infected tissue.
Where the patient survives, not only their sexual function may suffer, but the integrity of their bowel function may be compromised. A delay in diagnosis and surgery will increase the extent of surgery necessary to save the patient's life and the amount of scarring, deformity and disability they may suffer as a result.
Symptoms of fournier's gangrene
Symptoms which might suggest that a patient is developing fournier's gangrene would include the following:
- Significant pain and tenderness in the perineal region
- Swelling or redness in the perineal or genital region
- Discolouration of the skin
The patient may also be exhibiting symptoms such as a fast heartbeat, a high temperature and rapid breathing.
The patient's broader context may also be relevant. They may have recently undergone surgery or suffered an injury to the region which may have allowed bacteria to access the body's deep soft tissue.
Medical negligence
A failure to consider that a patient may be developing necrotising fasciitis or fournier's gangrene may be regarded as negligent where their symptoms should have raised such a suspicion.
A delay in making a referral for specialist investigation and a delay in initiating surgery may be regarded as negligent.
A misdiagnosis, allowing time for the patient to suffer a deterioration in their condition is likewise likely to be regarded as negligent.
Where a medical professional has any uncertainty or concern about their diagnosis of a patient's symptoms, they should seek a second opinion or specialist advice and a failure to do so may justify a claim for compensation.
Making a claim for compensation
If you or a loved one are struggling with the impact of fournier's gangrene due to substandard medical care, contact Glynns Solicitors to discuss the suitability of making a claim.
We are a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with extensive expertise in necrotising fasciitis claims and one of our experienced lawyers will be very happy to talk to you.
Please call us free on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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