Can I Sue If a Misdiagnosis Delayed My Cancer Treatment?

 Posted on July 28, 2025 in Medical Malpractice

With cancer, finding it and treating it as early as possible offers much better chances of survival. When doctors do not identify cancer in its early stages, patients miss opportunities for life-saving treatment and lose precious time as their condition worsens. If you or a loved one has suffered due to a misdiagnosis, you may have grounds for a medical malpractice claim.

At Carlson Law Group, P.C., we understand the devastating impact of delayed cancer treatment. Having served as both a prosecutor and a judge, our Grundy County, IL personal injury attorney brings a deep understanding of the law and how to pursue justice in complex medical cases. 

How Can Misdiagnosis Delay Critical Cancer Treatment?

Cancer sometimes mimics other, less serious conditions. However, doctors are trained to consider all possibilities, especially when patients show up with warning signs like unexplained weight loss, chronic pain, or fatigue. When a physician fails to order appropriate tests or ignores red flags, the result can be a missed diagnosis.

Common diagnostic errors that may lead to delayed cancer treatment include:

• Misreading or overlooking abnormal lab results or imaging

• Attributing symptoms to a non-cancerous condition without proper testing

• Failing to refer the patient to a specialist

• Delayed biopsy or pathology review

• Communication breakdowns between providers

The longer cancer goes untreated, the more likely it is to spread and become life-threatening. In some cases, patients who could have been treated successfully are left facing advanced illness, fewer treatment options, or terminal diagnoses.

Proving Medical Malpractice in a Delayed Diagnosis Case

Under Illinois law, patients can pursue compensation through medical malpractice claims if they meet the standards outlined in state case law and 735 ILCS 5/2-622. Plaintiffs must show that a doctor-patient relationship existed, the provider breached the standard of care, that breach caused harm, and the patient suffered damages as a result.

In delayed cancer treatment cases, proving that earlier intervention would have made a meaningful difference in the outcome is often the most critical part of the case. Unfortunately, it can also be the most challenging. That is why it is essential to work with an experienced and knowledgeable attorney who understands both medical evidence and how courts evaluate these claims.

Schedule a Free Consultation with a Grundy County, IL Medical Malpractice Lawyer

If you or a loved one suffered critical illness caused by a delayed cancer diagnosis, you do not have to navigate the legal system alone. At Carlson Law Group, P.C., we take pride in offering compassionate, effective representation backed by years of experience in both the courtroom and on the bench. 

Call our experienced Morris, IL personal injury attorney today at 815-710-3700 to schedule a free consultation so we can get started on your case.