Failure To Diagnose and Treat Acoustic Neuroma

Acoustic neuromas can cause hearing loss, tinnitus, and dizziness, and in some cases, can be life-threatening. In most instances, acoustic neuromas can be easily treated. If a doctor ignores the signs of an acoustic neuroma and it goes undiagnosed, however, their patient will not receive the care they need to manage their symptoms and prevent further harm. Unfortunately, though, acoustic neuromas often go undiagnosed. If you suffered damages because of a doctor’s failure to diagnose and treat acoustic neuroma, you may be able to recover compensation in a medical malpractice lawsuit, and it is in your best interest to speak to a lawyer as soon as possible. The Baltimore medical malpractice attorneys of Arfaa Law Group are proficient at demonstrating the liability of careless doctors, and if we represent you, we will advocate zealously on your behalf.

Acoustic neuroma, which is sometimes referred to as vestibular schwannoma, is a noncancerous tumor that develops on the nerve that connects the inner ear to the brain. Common symptoms include hearing loss, tinnitus, dizziness, and difficulty maintaining balance. As an acoustic neuroma grows, it may lead to facial numbness or weakness on one side. Diagnosing acoustic neuroma involves a comprehensive evaluation of symptoms, hearing tests, and imaging studies such as MRIs. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to preserving hearing and preventing further complications. Treatment options depend on factors such as the size of the tumor and the patient’s symptoms.

Typically, small acoustic neuromas are monitored, while larger or symptomatic tumors may require surgical removal or radiation therapy. When an acoustic neuromas diagnosis is missed or delayed, though, it may lead to debilitating symptoms and, in extreme cases, death. In many instances, a doctor’s failure to diagnose acoustic neuroma constitutes malpractice and may be grounds for pursuing damages in a civil lawsuit.

In a medical malpractice case, the plaintiff usually asserts a claim of medical negligence against the defendant. In Maryland, to prove medical negligence, a plaintiff must first demonstrate that the defendant had a duty to adhere to the applicable standard of care, which is the level of treatment expected from a competent professional in the same field when faced with a similar scenario. The plaintiff must then show that the defendant's actions or omissions deviated from this standard. Expert testimony is often necessary to explain the standard of care and how the defendant's behavior fell short of what is required under the standard.

Additionally, the plaintiff must establish a link between the defendant's actions and the harm suffered. In other words, they have to show that the defendant's failure to diagnose the acoustic neuroma was a significant factor in causing the plaintiff's injuries and that the harm would not have occurred absent the defendant's actions. Expert testimony is typically required to establish this causal connection as well.

If the plaintiff successfully demonstrates the defendant's negligence, the plaintiff may be awarded compensation for their losses. This can include the cost of medical care related to the harm, out-of-pocket expenses, and, if the plaintiff was unable to work due to their injuries, lost wages. They may also be able to recover damages for the pain, mental distress, suffering, and trauma endured as a result of the defendant's malpractice.

Most people with acoustic neuroma respond well to treatment. If doctors fail to diagnose acoustic neuromas, though, their patients will not receive the care they need, which in many instances leads to grave consequences. If you suffered losses due to a physician’s careless failure to diagnose and treat acoustic neuroma, you have the right to pursue claims against them, and you should confer with an attorney. The dedicated Baltimore lawyers of Arfaa Law Group can analyze the facts of your case and offer you advice regarding what damages you may be able to recover. We regularly represent people in medical malpractice cases in Baltimore, where our office is located. You can reach us at (410) 889-1850 or through our online form to schedule a meeting.