The cancer was diagnosed later, but the doctors were judged on 'then'
Issue -
September - 2026, Posted On: 01 September 2026
A breast cancer survivor was referred for evaluation and treatment of suspected tuberculosis after investigations showed no malignant cells but raised the possibility of TB. Months later, when recurrent cancer was diagnosed, the family alleged that the delay had cost the patient valuable treatment time. The Commission, however, viewed the case through the lens of clinical judgment rather than hindsight.
The patient had remained under oncological care for nearly a decade following treatment for breast cancer. During follow-up, investigations revealed enlarged lymph nodes, but the cytology report suggested granulomatous lymphadenitis with no evidence of malignant cells. Acting on those findings, the treating oncologist referred her to a physician specialising in tuberculosis, after which she underwent treatment at a dedicated TB facility.
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