With cystic fibrosis, it is important that it is diagnosed early, and the proper treatment given as soon as possible. If a doctor or physician fails to properly identify the disease, they can potentially reduce a patient’s life expectancy.

CYSTIC FIBROSIS DIAGNOSIS

The most common way of testing is through the sweat test. This test monitors the sodium levels in sweat which can indicate the presence of the condition.

Other tests may include:

• Chest X-rays
• Genetic tests
• Lung function tests
• Prenatal genetic tests

These can be used if a patient shows signs of having the condition. Signs may include shortness of breath, digestion problems, and vitamin and mineral deficiencies.

CYSTIC FIBROSIS MISDIAGNOSIS

Doctors have a duty of care to correctly diagnose a disease, especially one as serious as cystic fibrosis. Too often, they will mistake symptoms and diagnose another condition, such as:

• Asthma
• Malnutrition
• Pneumonia
• Pancreatitis
• Respiratory infection

Unfortunately, if not diagnosed properly, the patient can be at risk of developing a more advanced case of the disease.

THE IMPLICATIONS AND YOUR RIGHTS

Failure to identify the right condition and the subsequent delayed treatment may affect you in many ways. The delay may, unfortunately, reduce your life expectancy and result in pain, suffering and financial difficulty.

In addition, you may also suffer additional expenditures for doctor’s bills, hospital visits and the cost of medications. If it can be proved that the pain, inconvenience and expenses were a direct result of the cystic fibrosis not being diagnosed properly, you may be entitled to claim compensation.