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Misdiagnosed lupus claims

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune condition affecting thousands of people in the UK, but unfortunately, it can sometimes be misdiagnosed due to its complex nature. A misdiagnosis of lupus can cause unnecessary physical and emotional distress, delayed treatment, and prolonged suffering. At Stephensons, we understand the significant impact that medical negligence can have on your life. Our experienced solicitors specialise in medical negligence claims, assisting individuals who have endured harm caused by misdiagnosed lupus.

 

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What is misdiagnosed lupus?

Misdiagnosed lupus occurs when a medical professional incorrectly identifies lupus symptoms as another condition or fails completely to diagnose lupus when clear indicators are present. Lupus, medically known as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), is an autoimmune condition where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue, causing inflammation, pain, fatigue and potentially serious complications. Because lupus symptoms vary significantly and often mimic other diseases, diagnosing lupus requires a thorough medical history, detailed examination, and specific blood tests.

Unfortunately, misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis happens frequently. Patients may be wrongly diagnosed with arthritis, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, or even psychological conditions before receiving the correct diagnosis. These errors delay vital treatment and can have long-term health consequences, reducing the patient's quality of life, causing irreversible damage or disability and, in severe cases, even resulting in premature death.

Can you claim compensation for misdiagnosed lupus?

If lupus has been misdiagnosed or diagnosed late due to mistakes by healthcare professionals, you may be eligible to claim compensation. Medical professionals owe patients a duty of care and, when they fail in this duty, causing you harm that could otherwise have been avoided. This constitutes medical negligence.

To pursue a claim successfully, it must be demonstrated that:-

  • Breach of Duty - The healthcare professional or institution provided medical care which fell below appropriate standards and /or acted negligently by failing to conduct appropriate investigations, tests, or referrals.
  • Causation - It must also be proven that this negligence directly contributed to your suffering or worsened your medical outcome and prognosis.

At Stephensons, we understand your frustration, anxiety, and the pain caused by misdiagnosed lupus. Our specialist medical negligence solicitors can help you establish whether there has been negligence and if your claim is valid. We will support you every step of the way, making sure you understand your rights and securing the compensation you deserve to help rebuild your life.

Why choose us for your misdiagnosed lupus claim?

Stephensons is a leading law firm with extensive experience handling medical negligence claims. Our expert solicitors have successfully represented clients in many complex cases involving misdiagnosis, delayed diagnosis and lupus complications. We have the knowledge, experience, and sensitivity required to handle these challenging cases effectively and compassionately.

We are accredited by the Law Society for Clinical Negligence, which highlights our expertise within this specialist sector. Furthermore, Stephensons is recognised by top industry directories such as the Legal 500 and Chambers UK, evidencing our reputation, client-centred approach and successful case outcomes.

Our team offers compassionate and personalised service, guiding you through each step of the process. We operate on a no-win, no-fee basis, ensuring that there is minimal financial risk to you throughout your claim.

How we can help

At Stephensons, our medical negligence solicitors will closely examine your case, reviewing your medical records and engaging independent medical experts to determine whether your lupus misdiagnosis resulted from substandard medical care.

We will clearly explain your legal position and keep you informed at every stage of the claims process. We will strive to secure compensation reflecting:

  • Pain and suffering caused by delayed or incorrect diagnosis
  • Loss of income due to being unable to work
  • Costs associated with ongoing treatment and rehabilitation
  • Expenses related to necessary adaptations to your home or specialist equipment
  • Emotional trauma and reduced quality of life

Our focus is on ensuring you receive fair compensation so you can move forward with your life as positively as possible.

Contact Stephensons today

If you believe you have suffered due to misdiagnosed lupus, contact Stephensons Solicitors LLP today. Speak to one of our specialist medical negligence solicitors to discuss your claim confidentially and without any obligation. You can reach us by phone on 0161 696 6165 or fill in our enquiry form for a callback at your convenience.

Frequently asked questions - misdiagnosed lupus claims

How long do I have to make a misdiagnosed lupus 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 lupus 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 long do misdiagnosed lupus claims take?

The length of the claims process varies based on the complexity of each case. Generally, medical negligence cases can take between 12 to 36 months from start to finish. We are dedicated to handling your claim efficiently and clearly communicating with you throughout.

Will I have to attend court?

Most medical negligence claims are settled without court appearances. However, if necessary, our expert solicitors will guide and support you through any court proceedings, advocating strongly for your interests at all times.

What compensation will I receive for a lupus misdiagnosis?

Compensation in misdiagnosed lupus claims can 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.

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