Why a 'fit and healthy' 25-year-old died following a sciatica diagnosis
Key Takeaways
Vital Signs
Female, 25
Complains of severe back pain
Initial sciatica diagnosis
MRI administered
Grapefruit-sized tumor visualized
In a sobering reminder that even the fittest among us are not immune to serious health conditions, a 25-year-old woman from the UK tragically passed away after being misdiagnosed with sciatica.
Related: How a rare cancer was misdiagnosed as schizophrenia for 10 yearsThe Patient
Kate Drummond, a 25-year-old athletic woman, was described by her family as "fit and healthy." She had no significant medical history and led an active lifestyle. []
In 2020, she began experiencing persistent back pain, which she attributed to poor posture and rigorous physical activities. She was diagnosed with sciatica, a condition often associated with nerve compression, in May 2021.
The Tests
Despite the initial diagnosis, Drummond's symptoms persisted and even intensified over time. Concerned about her condition, she sought further medical evaluation. In August 2021, after her condition failed to improve, Kate underwent an MRI scan.
The Diagnosis
The results of the MRI revealed a "grapefruit-sized" tumor in her pelvis, which was later identified as a rare and aggressive form of bone cancer. The diagnosis of bone cancer came as a devastating shock to Drummond and her family.
The Treatment
Between August 2021 and January 2022, Drummond underwent treatment, but the cancer had already metastasized to nearly every part of her body.
Despite the aggressive treatment plan, Drummond's condition continued to deteriorate. She died in March 2022.
Related: Doctor denies life-saving surgery, family alleges: Malpractice or medical judgment?The Takeaway
Drummond's death serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of considering a broad differential diagnosis, even in young, healthy individuals. Persistent or unexplained symptoms should prompt further investigation, including imaging studies, to rule out serious underlying conditions.
“We’d be silly to not assume that things could have been slightly different had she been diagnosed sooner,” Drummond's sister, Kelly, said. “When Kate’s tumor was found, it was large—they described it as grapefruit-sized— and it was suggested she may have had cancer in her body for up to two years." []
As healthcare providers, it's crucial to listen to our patients and their families, especially when symptoms do not align with initial diagnoses. Early detection and intervention can significantly impact outcomes, particularly in aggressive diseases like cancer.
This case also emphasizes the need for continuous education and awareness among medical professionals regarding rare and atypical presentations of common conditions.
