Misread Pap Smear Results in $4 Million Jury Verdict After Misdiagnosis of Cervical Cancer

Janice Rowland, 59, underwent a Pap smear that was interpreted as normal. Two and half years later, she developed post-menopausal bleeding and pelvic pain. She then underwent a cervical biopsy. The biopsy led to a diagnosis of metastatic cervical cancer, and she died several months later. Rowland was survived by her husband.

On behalf of her estate, her husband sued Quest Diagnostics, which was the company that misread the Pap smear. It was alleged in the lawsuit that its cytotechnologist misinterpreted the Pap smear slides. If read correctly, the slide would have showed evidence of cancer and necessitated review by a pathologist. The lawsuit did not claim lost income.

The jury signed a verdict for $4 million. However, it was reported that post-trial motions are pending.

The attorney representing the Janice Rowland family was Elizabeth H. Faiella. At trial, counsel for the Rowland family introduced experts in cytopathology, gynecological oncology and economics. The defendants produced experts in cytopathology and gynecological oncology.

Rowland v. Quest Diagnostics, Inc., No. 15-CA-2803 (Fla. Cir. Ct. Hillsborough County).

Kreisman Law Offices has been handling medical negligence cases, misdiagnosis of cancer cases, wrongful death cases, birth trauma injury cases and nursing home abuse cases for individuals and families who have been harmed, injured or died as a result of the carelessness or negligence of a medical provider for more than 40 years in and around Chicago, Cook County and its surrounding areas, including Lincolnwood, Oak Forest, Forest Park, Park Ridge, Homewood, Highwood, Highland Park, Lake Forest, Kenilworth, Blue Island and Crestwood, Ill.

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