Last Updated on April 14, 2025 by tanya

Misdiagnosed or Delayed Bladder Cancer Diagnosis

Make a Clinical Negligence Claim For Compensation

 

Misdiagnosed or a delayed bladder cancer diagnosis may have a serious impact on a patient’s prognosis. Bladder cancer is one of the more common cancers affecting the urinary system, yet it may not be recognised in its early stages.

Early symptoms may mimic benign conditions. So it’s crucial for healthcare professionals to fully investigate persistent symptoms. However if you or a loved one has suffered harm due to the missed bladder cancer diagnosis, you may be eligible to make a clinical negligence claim.

At First Personal Injury, we work with lawyers who are experienced in clinical negligence and who can assess your case at no cost to you.

 

 

Red Flags Which May Indicate Bladder Cancer

 

Bladder cancer typically begins in the cells lining the inside of the bladder. While it can affect anyone, it is more common in those over 55. Some of the risk factors include smoking, exposure to industrial chemicals, and chronic bladder inflammation.

Early signs of bladder cancer often include:

 

• Blood in the urine is the most common and often the earliest symptom.
• Frequent or painful urination
• Lower abdominal or back pain

 

Unfortunately, these symptoms may overlap with a range of other, more common urological conditions. This overlap can lead to misdiagnosis or delays in identifying the underlying cause as bladder cancer.

 

Possible Mistaken Conditions For Bladder Cancer

 

Bladder cancer can be mistaken for several benign or less severe medical issues, particularly in its early stages. Some of these mistaken conditions may include:

 

• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Both bladder cancer and UTIs can cause blood in the urine, frequent urination, and pelvic discomfort.
• Kidney Stones: Blood in the urine and flank pain may often point to kidney stones.
• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): In men, an enlarged prostate can cause urinary frequency and difficulty, symptoms similar to those of bladder cancer.
• Bladder Inflammation (Cystitis) : Especially in women, recurring bladder inflammation may be mistaken for a UTI or interstitial cystitis.
• Overactive Bladder Syndrome: This causes urgency and frequency, which can also occur with bladder tumours.

 

In all instances you should always consult with a medical professional around life expectancy questions.

 

When Can You File a Clinical Negligence Claim?

 

Medical professionals have a duty of care to investigate and diagnose health issues appropriately. When that duty is breached, it may be considered clinical negligence. This may include factors such as failing to refer a patient for necessary tests or misinterpreting results. Additionally, not considering bladder cancer as a potential diagnosis –  despite clear warning signs – may be considered clinical negligence.

To start a clinical negligence claim, three criteria typically need to be established:

 

1. Duty of Care: The healthcare provider owed the patient a legal duty of care.
2. Breach of Duty: The care provided fell below the expected standard of a competent professional in the same field.
3. Causation of Harm: The breach directly caused or contributed to harm, such as the cancer progressing to a more advanced stage that could have been avoided with timely treatment.

 

You generally have three years from the date you became aware of the negligence to file a claim. There are exceptions to this rule for minors and those lacking mental capacity.

 

‘No Win, No Fee’ Claims For Compensation

 

Clinical negligence claims may be complex and it is essential that you consult with a lawyer who has experience in this field.

If you or a loved one has suffered from a missed diagnosis for bladder cancer,  First Personal Injury can guide you through the process to get the compensation you deserve. We work with experienced lawyers who work on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis. Call us at 0333 358 2345 or contact us online for a free consultation.