Consultant Leaves Country Amid Review of Cancer Misdiagnoses

A consultant involved in a review of miscategorised pre-cancerous cells at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda has left the country, according to health sources. The review, which focuses on a significant number of cases, aims to address concerns regarding the accuracy of diagnoses made over several months.

Reports indicate that patients treated at the Co Louth hospital are being informed this week about the misclassification of their pre-cancerous cells as part of the open disclosure procedures mandated by the Health Service Executive (HSE). The hospital has initiated an independent review of all histopathology slides pertaining to one consultant, covering the period from February to November 2024. Currently, the review encompasses just over 1,000 cases related to various specialities.

Details of the Review Process

Histopathology, the examination of tissue samples from biopsies and surgical procedures, plays a crucial role in diagnosing diseases, particularly cancer. The hospital confirmed that it is halfway through the review process. In a statement, the hospital noted, “This review is under way and any patients in relation to whom any findings are relevant will be contacted directly by the hospital.” The HSE’s Dublin and North East division has provided necessary information to the HSE in accordance with the National Patient Safety Briefing Protocol.

Several patients have been invited to meetings to discuss the findings under the HSE’s open disclosure procedures. In addition, many patients will receive letters informing them that the grading of their pre-cancerous cells has been altered following the review. Importantly, the hospital clarified that no further action is required in these instances.

So far, the review has revealed that two patients experienced a 12-day delay in their treatment plans, and in one case, an unnecessary additional biopsy was performed. The review has resulted in some patients having their cell classifications upgraded while others saw theirs downgraded.

Official Responses and Support for Patients

When questioned about the resources allocated for the review and its potential impact on other departmental activities, a spokeswoman stated that they “are still working through that detail.”

Earlier this week, Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill acknowledged the ongoing “look-back review” at the hospital. She emphasised the importance of ensuring that affected patients receive the care and treatment they require, and stated that information from the review should be communicated transparently and compassionately.

To assist those concerned about their diagnoses, the HSE has established a helpline, available at 1800-667700. This helpline operates from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM Monday to Friday, and from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM on Saturday and Sunday.

As the review progresses, the hospital remains committed to addressing patient concerns and ensuring accurate diagnoses in the future.