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Misdiagnosed keratoconus claims

Stephensons understands how devastating misdiagnosed keratoconus can be for you and your loved ones. Keratoconus is an eye condition requiring prompt, accurate diagnosis and specialist care. A delay or incorrect diagnosis can cause unnecessary suffering, irreversible vision damage and significantly impact your quality of life. If your keratoconus was misdiagnosed or incorrectly treated, you may be entitled to make a medical negligence claim for compensation.

 

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What is misdiagnosed keratoconus?

Keratoconus is an eye condition caused by a progressive thinning of the cornea, leading to a conical shape rather than its normal rounded form. It typically affects both eyes and commonly manifests in teenagers and young adults. Common symptoms include blurred or distorted vision, sensitivity to light, and difficulty driving at night.

Misdiagnosed keratoconus occurs when an optician, GP, ophthalmologist or other healthcare professional fails to accurately identify the condition when symptoms first present. A delay in diagnosis can mean the difference between effective early interventions, such as corrective lenses or non-invasive treatments, and more invasive, surgical procedures such as corneal transplants. Misdiagnosis may lead to further deterioration in sight, increased medical expenses, loss of earnings, emotional distress and a reduced quality of life.

Can you claim compensation for misdiagnosed keratoconus?

If medical professionals have missed signs of keratoconus or diagnosed the condition incorrectly or too late, you may have grounds to bring forward a medical negligence claim. Compensation claims can help address additional medical costs, rehabilitation expenses, loss of income, pain, suffering and any lifestyle adjustments arising from your condition.

At Stephensons, we regularly handle claims involving medical negligence cases relating to misdiagnosed keratoconus. We understand the complex nature of eye-related conditions and have access to specialist medical experts who assist us in effectively proving your case.

Why choose us?

Stephensons Solicitors LLP is one of the UK's most respected and established law firms, with decades of experience supporting clients in medical negligence claims. Our dedicated medical negligence team has successfully represented thousands of clients in cases of delayed or incorrect diagnosis, securing substantial compensation and providing clear, compassionate support during difficult times.

Stephensons holds accreditation from Lexcel, the Law Society’s hallmark for legal practice excellence, reflecting our commitment to exceptional client care, transparency and ethical standards. Additionally, we are ranked in leading independent legal guides, including Chambers & Partners and the Legal 500, indicating our proven expertise and ability to achieve the best outcomes for our clients.

Our solicitors approach every case with professionalism, attention to detail and genuine compassion. We offer clear, straightforward advice and keep you fully informed throughout every step of your compensation claim, ensuring your interests remain central to our service.

How we can help

At Stephensons, we recognise the personal and emotional impact of misdiagnosed keratoconus. From our initial consultation onwards, we guide you clearly through the legal process, gathering essential medical evidence, instructing specialist ophthalmology experts, and supporting you every step of the way.

Our medical negligence solicitors will carefully assess your individual circumstances, determine the strength of your claim, and provide realistic advice regarding potential compensation. We operate on a no-win, no-fee basis where possible, ensuring you receive high-quality legal representation without upfront financial risk.

Contact us

If you have experienced misdiagnosed keratoconus and believe you may have a medical negligence claim, contact Stephensons today for confidential advice about your options. Call our specialist team on 0161 696 6165 or simply complete our online enquiry form. A member of our experienced team will call you back promptly at a suitable time.

Common FAQs - misdiagnosed keratoconus claims

What qualifies as misdiagnosis of keratoconus?

Misdiagnosis refers to situations when a healthcare provider fails to accurately identify keratoconus in a timely manner, leading to delayed treatment and further damage to the patient's vision and quality of life.

Are there time limits for making a misdiagnosis claim?

In line with standard medical negligence claims, according to the Limitation Act 1980, the general time limit for making a compensation claim related to misdiagnosed keratoconus in the UK is three years from the date of negligence occurrence or three years from the date you became aware of negligence causing harm (often known as the "date of knowledge"). However, exceptions do exist in specific circumstances, including:

  • If the claimant is under the age of 18, the three-year limitation period begins on their 18th birthday, expiring at age 21.
  • If the claimant lacks mental capacity, the time limitation may potentially be extended indefinitely until the claimant regains capacity.
  • If the alleged defendant agrees to a limitation extension, and/or the Court approves an extension in specific circumstances at its own discretion.

Although three years may seem sufficient, we strongly recommend contacting Stephensons as early as possible after the negligence event occurs. Prompt legal action allows our solicitors maximum opportunity for evidence collection, expert advice, and achieving successful outcomes.

How much compensation can I expect?

Compensation amounts vary considerably based on injury severity, the impact of negligence on your health and finances, and other individual circumstances. Compensation typically falls into two categories:

  • General Damages - Compensation awarded for your physical and psychological pain, suffering, and loss of amenity. This is assessed based on the extent, seriousness, and duration of your injuries or illness caused by negligence.
  • Special Damages - These damages comprise compensation for financial losses incurred in the past and/or future due to negligence, including loss of earnings, medical expenses, travel costs, gratuitous care requirements, rehabilitation expenses, home adaptations, and any other related financial losses.

Our solicitors will assess your situation in detail and advise you realistically about the potential amount.

How long will the claims process take?

Claims usually take around 12-24 months to resolve, but each case is unique. Factors such as the complexity of the medical evidence and willingness of the defendant to admit liability can impact timing.

Can I make a claim on a no-win, no-fee basis?

Yes, in most cases, our medical negligence solicitors can handle keratoconus misdiagnosis claims on a no-win, no-fee arrangement, meaning you do not need to worry about upfront costs or financial risks.

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