Homerton Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust admits misdiagnosing tumour which left London man with aggressive skin cancer

The man, who we will refer to as David, has secured a six-figure settlement from the trust.

In 2001, when he was 31, David was referred to Homerton University Hospital in Hackney, East London for what was thought to be a minor sebaceous cyst on his upper thigh. Sebaceous glands are microscopic glands in hair follicles that secrete oil to protect the skin. In 2002, the cyst was found to be a benign tumour with a risk of recurrence, and it was removed. The hospital failed to arrange any follow-up appointments.

The lump returned in 2004, and David went for another removal. A further microscopic study found the tumour had not been fully removed, but records show this information was not shared with David or his GP. Over the next several years, David repeatedly sought help from his GP as the lump reappeared and worsened. Between 2014 and 2018, he reported pain and bleeding, but these concerns were not acted upon.

In 2018, David was referred back to Homerton University Hospital. He was diagnosed with adnexal carcinoma, a rare and aggressive skin cancer. His treatment involved multiple surgeries, radiotherapy, and management of serious complications including pulmonary embolism, and a blood clot in his lungs. David says his recovery was slow and painful.

Following a relapse in 2022, he had further surgery, and a 2023 scan raised concerns about remaining cancer cells.

Now, aged 55, David lives with lymphoedema, a condition that causes swelling and limits his mobility. This has left him with chronic discomfort. 

As a self-employed technician, David’s ability to work has been severely impacted. The injuries have also taken a toll on his mental health.

David instructed Nandi Jordan, a partner in the medical negligence team at law firm, Leigh Day to investigate his case and was successful in his claim for damages.

Homerton Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust admitted liability and agreed to pay a settlement of £575,000.

David said:

“I am grateful that the case has finally been resolved and that justice has been served. Although no outcome can erase the hardship and emotional weight of what happened, I take comfort in knowing the truth has been acknowledged. My heartfelt thanks go to Nandi and her team for their strength, guidance, and unwavering support throughout this difficult journey.”

Nandi Jordan said:

“This was an awful case where there were basic and avoidable errors during treatment.  Nothing can make right the impact on my client’s health, but I hope that the award of damages goes some way in restoring the financial losses he has suffered and providing financial security to my client in the future.”

Sophie Beesley of Old Square Chambers was instructed as counsel.