Lung Cancer Lawyers – X-Rays and Sputum Cytology Can Prove Negligence
Asbestos and Radon can both cause lung cancer and mesothelioma. To determine if your doctor should have performed X-rays or sputum cytology, read this article. In addition, learn how sputum cytology can be used to prove negligence. These are important factors to consider when filing a claim for compensation for your cancer. In New York, the rule of locality applies, which means the doctor should have followed the practice standards of other physicians practicing in his or her geographic area.
Asbestos causes lung cancer
Asbestos is a dangerous carcinogen that has been linked to numerous kinds of cancer, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. Lung cancer has two primary types, small cell, and non-small cell, and 85% of all cases are caused by asbestos exposure. Small cell lung cancers are more easily treated than their larger counterparts, as they usually develop in the air sacs and mucus-producing glandular tissues.
When exposed to asbestos, it sticks to mucus and lungs. It is not uncommon for some fibers to be coughed out, swallowed along with saliva, or ingested through the digestive system. Those that remain in the lungs may be trapped there for many years. This can cause damage to the lung tissue, causing inflammation and scarring. People who are exposed to asbestos also have an increased risk of developing lung cancer if they smoke.
Radon causes mesothelioma
Although there is no direct evidence linking radon to mesothelioma, a link has been established. Radon is a common air pollutant that enters your home through the foundation. The gas contains a high concentration of 222Rn, an alpha particle ionized by the radiation, and can cause genetic damage. This damage cannot be repaired without genetic errors. While the level of sensitivity to radon varies greatly between different people, there is a distinct risk in children and women who live in buildings with radon.
Radon exposure is one of the leading causes of lung cancer in the United States. It is incredibly easy and inexpensive to test for the presence of radon in your home. Radon is a radioactive gas that occurs during the breakdown of uranium deep underground. The US Environmental Protection Agency has classified radon as a carcinogen and a risk factor for lung cancer.
X-rays
A significant number of lung cancer lawsuits have involved the lack of proper diagnostic X-rays. These malpractice claims arise when a physician fails to recognize an abnormality on an x-ray. Failure to detect lung cancer can be caused by two factors. First, the tumor must be detected early. Second, a delay in diagnosis can result in cancer spreading. Third, delayed diagnoses can result in unnecessary pain and death. Fortunately, many lung cancers can be detected early, which can lead to better outcomes.
While LL projection is a powerful tool for detecting lung cancer, additional views can be used to confirm the diagnosis. Although additional views may not be needed for lung cancer diagnosis, the cost and radiation exposure should be considered. In addition, some studies have found that anteroposterior (AP) radiographs may miss lung lesions. Additionally, AP images are of lower quality than standard chest X-rays.
sputum cytology
Sputum cytology is a test used to determine the presence of cancer cells. It can be performed during a doctor’s visit or in an adjacent laboratory suite. Patients should follow special instructions before the test, such as refraining from using toothpaste. They should also blow their nose and minimize the drainage from their upper airways. The healthcare provider will then ask the patient to cough into a collection container. Sputum cytology is likely to play a smaller role in lung cancer diagnosis in the future.
Sputum cytology isn’t a reliable screening test for lung cancer and can miss some cases of the disease. In addition, sputum cytology has low accuracy in determining the subtype of lung cancer and the location of cancer. In most cases, lung cancer is diagnosed only after more tests are performed. But it is a useful tool in the event a person has a lung cancer diagnosis.
Surgery
As the number of people diagnosed with lung cancer rises, so do the number of lawsuits filed against doctors and hospitals. Fortunately, with advanced lung cancer, patients may still have some options. Getting a lung biopsy is an excellent way to determine the type of cancer that has spread and how advanced the disease is. Ultimately, a lung biopsy may help to determine what type of treatment is needed. Whether or not surgery is necessary will depend on the specifics of the case.
When considering surgical treatment, it is important to keep in mind that many people have limited or no physical ability after the surgery. While lung cancer survivors may be able to resume normal activities after undergoing surgery, people with other forms of lung disease may continue to experience shortness of breath. Surgical treatment may also benefit those who only have a tumor in one lung. While brain tumor removal may be necessary, it should only be performed if the tumor in the lung cannot be removed completely.
Palliative care
Lung cancer attorneys should know that the patients and caregivers are an important part of the process of treating their loved ones. Often, they are overwhelmed by the extra responsibilities that come along with their loved one’s illness. The stress of trying to provide quality care to a family member or loved one with cancer can be debilitating. Palliative care specialists offer emotional and financial support for caregivers who are facing this difficult time in their lives.
Patients often blame themselves for getting the illness. 85 percent of lung cancer cases are attributed to smoking. As a result, many patients blame themselves for their condition, so it is vital to seek out support from the palliative care team. The team will help the patient explore feelings of guilt and accept the diagnosis. They will also help the patient discuss the illness with loved ones, and will match treatment options with goals for quality of life.