According to medical experts, it's imperative that North Carolina women who suffer from crippling pain in their reproductive systems get proper diagnoses. For example, endometriosis is a disease that causes uterine lining to grow outside the uterus and could result in both pain and infertility. There are several ways that this disease can be diagnosed.
Among the first steps to diagnosing endometriosis is a pelvic exam. Usually, the physician will look for cysts, scars and other abnormalities. If there is an indication that something is not right, MRI and CT scans are the next step. These scans can create better visuals of the abdomen. An ultrasound may also be completed. While these diagnostic tests may not reveal if the person has endometriosis, they may lead to more invasive testing.
It is argued by some that surgery is the only way to properly diagnose endometriosis. The surgery, called laparoscopy, involves making small incisions in the abdomen. A small camera is inserted near the navel to detect any endometrial tissue outside the uterus. In some cases, a small sample of the tissue may be removed so a biopsy can be conducted.
If endometriosis goes undetected or undiagnosed because the physician failed to order the proper diagnostic tests, a medical malpractice attorney may help the patient file a malpractice lawsuit. Depending on the circumstances, the patient could potentially seek compensation for the pain and suffering they underwent while their condition remained undetected. An attorney may also assist with gathering evidence that shows that the physician failed to order the correct diagnostic tests, misread the results of the tests or failed to do the proper followup once the diagnostic tests had been completed.