People in Iowa who suffer from certain skin conditions may be surprised to learn that such ailments are routinely misdiagnosed by doctors. Because the symptoms for many skin diseases can mimic other conditions, they can be easily misdiagnosed. As a result, patients might not receive the proper medical care that they need.
Basal cell carcinoma is the most frequently occurring skin cancer in the United States. However, it is often mistaken for a simple blemish. The cancer might begin as a small pink bump that can be likened to acne. If a skin blemish appears, remains for three weeks and is progressively getting larger or bleeding, dermatologists recommend an examination by a dermatologist.
Rosacea is also commonly misdiagnosed as acne. Rosacea, which affects 16 million people in the nation, is a chronic skin disorder that affects the face. The skin sensitivity and redness it causes can make rosacea difficult for dermatologists to diagnose and treat properly. In many cases, rosacea looks a lot like acne. Unfortunately, the medication that is commonly prescribed for acne will make rosacea worse.
Psoriasis stems from the body’s immune system attacking the skin. The cause of the condition is unknown, but it results in flaky plaques developing on the skin. Typical treatment for the condition may include prescription medication to stop inflammation; however, psoriasis can also be difficult to identify.
When misdiagnoses occur, patients may be victims of medical malpractice. In such a case, a lawyer who practices medical malpractice law might pursue financial damages against the negligent parties.