Radiology

When the Diagnosis Was There to be Seen

Radiology plays a critical role in diagnosing injuries and illnesses. X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, ultrasounds, and other imaging tools help doctors detect everything from fractures to tumors to internal bleeding. But when a radiologist makes an error, by misreading an image, overlooking a finding, or failing to report results accurately, the consequences can be severe. Delayed or incorrect diagnoses can lead to unnecessary suffering, irreversible damage, or even death.

An All to Common Error

Radiology errors are among the most common causes of medical misdiagnosis and can occur in hospital emergency departments, private imaging clinics, and outpatient settings. Patients often never meet the radiologist involved and may not realize that an imaging error contributed to their poor outcome, until it’s too late.

Common Radiology Mistakes

Mistakes in interpreting imaging can delay diagnosis, lead to incorrect treatment, or allow a condition to progress unchecked. Some of the most frequent radiology errors include missing signs of cancer (e.g., breast, lung, or bone tumors), failure to detect fractures or internal bleeding, misidentifying stroke, aneurysms, or blood clots, overlooking signs of infection, abscesses, or organ damage, and inadequate reporting or communication of urgent findings.

Impact of a Delayed or Missed Diagnosis

The consequences of a radiology error depend on the condition being missed, but in many cases, earlier diagnosis could have prevented a worsening prognosis. A missed tumor may grow and spread before being diagnosed and treated. An undetected fracture could lead to permanent joint damage before casting. A missed stroke or aneurysm may result in death or lifelong disability.

Here to Help

We have extensive experience in radiology cases, including the misreporting and delayed reporting of critical imaging findings. We work with leading radiologists to review your medical imaging and reports to determine if the care provided was appropriate. We recognize how much is at stake, and we’re here to help you pursue the answers, accountability, and compensation you deserve.