Rachel Kirby, Senior Associate, in Geldards Medical Negligence team, has secured compensation on behalf of a client following a delayed diagnosis of Addison’s disease, a potentially life-threatening condition.

Addison’s disease is a long-term endocrine disorder, caused by inadequate production of hormones from the adrenal glands.

In its early stages, Addison’s disease may present with symptoms such as fatigue, reduced motivation, muscle weakness, low mood and increased thirst. If the condition progresses, these symptoms can worsen to include dizziness, fainting, muscle cramps and extreme exhaustion.

Early-stage symptoms of Addison’s disease include lack of energy or motivation, muscle weakness, low mood and increased thirst. Over time, these problems may become more severe, and symptoms may include dizziness, fainting, cramps and exhaustion.

The Claimant first exhibited abnormal blood test results, showing low sodium and raised potassium level.

The Claimant was admitted to hospital, reporting symptoms such as shortness of breath, muscle pain, fatigue, palpitations and light-headedness. A healthcare professional ordered tests that indicated adrenal insufficiency. Treatment with intravenous hydrocortisone was initiated the following day, and fludrocortisone was later prescribed, following a review by the endocrine team. The Claimant was subsequently discharged from hospital and advised to attend a six-week review appointment. No appointment was forthcoming. Therefore, the Claimant chased the hospital but was advised that her auto-antibodies test was negative, leading to the conclusion that she in fact did not have Addison’s disease. Consequently, the Claimant was instructed to discontinue her fludrocortisone.

However, the Claimant sought a second opinion a few months later, as she had ongoing symptoms and no definitive diagnosis. The doctor, who reviewed her test results, coupled with the Claimant’s history of vitiligo, supported a diagnosis of Addison’s disease. Subsequent consultations revealed persistent symptoms, including shaking, palpitations and dizziness.

It was later confirmed that the clinical diagnosis remained consistent with auto-immune adrenal suppression, despite negative adrenal autoantibodies.

The Claimant alleged that the Defendant Health Board was negligent in several aspects, including:

1.      Failing to accurately diagnose her adrenal insufficiency

2.      Failing to appropriately investigate the underlying cause of her condition

3.      Negligently relying on negative adrenal autoantibodies to rule out Addison’s disease

4.      Failing to address the Claimant’s ongoing concerns regarding her diagnosis and medical treatment.

We sought expert evidence from a Consultant Physician and Endocrinologist. The medical expert supported the Claimant’s allegations, noting that the Defendant’s failure to conduct further investigations, fell below an acceptable standard of care and constituted a breach of duty of care.

A Letter of Claim was submitted to the Defendant, along with an initial settlement offer. Following a period of delay, the Defendant made an offer in respect of damages. This offer was accepted by the Claimant, settling the claim in full and final terms.

This settlement reflects the challenges faced by the Claimant in seeking appropriate diagnosis and treatment for a potentially life-threatening condition.

If you have any questions about the above case study or believe you have a medical negligence claim and would like to speak with a clinical negligence specialist solicitor, please contact Linda Williams on 02920 391773 or linda.williams@geldards.com.