Our client attended the urology clinic over the course of a year between 2018 and 2019, repeatedly reporting urinary retention, severe pain and haematuria. Despite these concerning symptoms, she underwent multiple trials without catheter and no meaningful investigation into the underlying cause was carried out. Approximately nine months later, a tumour at the bladder neck and urethra was finally identified and she was diagnosed with advanced bladder cancer. Liability was denied throughout.

The claim alleged that there was a continued and negligent failure to investigate her symptoms, consider differential diagnoses, and refer her for appropriate imaging. Had the tumour been identified earlier, she would have avoided a substantial period of excruciating pain, bladder spasms, repeated catheterisations including six failed trials without catheter, attempted self-catheterisation, and the development of a vaginal fistula. She also underwent avoidable chemotherapy and pelvic radiotherapy, resulting in lymphoedema, peripheral neuropathy and a psychiatric Adjustment Reaction.

As a consequence of the negligent delay, our client had to stop working due to the long-term side effects and required extensive care and assistance. Her life expectancy has been reduced by approximately four years as a result of unnecessary radiotherapy. She faces a 5–10% lifetime risk of skin deterioration linked to lymphoedema and recurrent infections, and continues to suffer significant restrictions in her personal and social life. Cognitive behavioural therapy is required to support her psychological recovery.

A substantial settlement was achieved, reflecting the severity of the prolonged suffering, the invasive and avoidable treatment, and the permanent impact on her health, wellbeing and future prospects.