Did failure to disclose abnormal mammogram lead to death?

Kings County (NY) Supreme Court

A 41-year-old woman underwent a mammogram, which was read as abnormal. A surgical biopsy was recommended, but was not performed until a much later date. Two years later, the woman was diagnosed with breast cancer that had metastasized to her bones. She died 3 years later.

The physician contended that the patient’s cancer spread as a result of her failure to return for follow-up visits.

The patient’s family, however, claimed the woman was not told of her abnormal mammogram results, nor was she informed of the need for follow-up visits.

• The case settled for $1.7 million.