OpenHealth Q&A

Misdiagnosis Tragedy: My Dad's Journey from Osteoarthritis to Angiosarcoma

Hello! I have a lengthy story to share, and I'd appreciate your patience. I'm seeking insights from any medical professionals here who might shed light on my father's experience (67, with Type 2 Diabetes and High Blood Pressure, yet generally active and healthy). Today marks a year since his cancer diagnosis, and so many aspects remain unresolved. While I understand that it may be difficult to provide answers, I figured it was worth a try. In March 2024, my father visited his physician due to persistent leg discomfort. After an X-ray, he was diagnosed with osteoarthritis in his right hip, prescribed pain relief medication, and was scheduled for a hip replacement in September. As the months passed, his condition worsened; he began to suffer from nausea, confusion, significant mood swings, fatigue, and sleeplessness. He reached out multiple times to his doctor, documenting these symptoms, but was told they were merely side effects of the medication. No follow-up tests or bloodwork were conducted. On August 14, 2024, my mother insisted he go to the emergency room because of intense pain and illness—she sensed something was amiss. The medical staff quickly conducted tests and informed us that the initial diagnosis of osteoarthritis was not accurate; instead, he had extensive lesions throughout his right pelvis and both femurs. He was admitted immediately. In the following days, the doctors suggested surgery for pelvic stabilization and a biopsy. However, his condition deteriorated rapidly, leading to extreme delirium, which was beyond description. He was later transferred to a downtown hospital. Despite the change in location, his lucid moments seemed to vanish overnight. After a few days, they discharged him, stating surgery was unnecessary and postponed the biopsy for two weeks. Over the next three days at home, his confusion and pain intensified significantly. On August 26, we decided to take him to the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota. In the emergency department, he had an overwhelming emotional breakdown—yelling, crying, declaring his wish to end his suffering, and damaging property. Extensive bloodwork and imaging were performed, resulting in his admission. By August 27, the biopsy was completed. On August 29, we received the heartbreaking news: he had high-grade angiosarcoma affecting the bone. An additional PET scan on August 30 revealed that the cancer had spread throughout his limbs, including his spine, bladder, and colon. On September 2, surgeons performed a procedure to stabilize his femurs, primarily to provide comfort, as they had little hope for effective treatment. His condition worsened rapidly after that, leading to an ICU admission by September 13. On September 17, he returned to a regular hospital room, where a lumbar puncture was performed. Two days later, results indicated that no further medical interventions were viable, prompting us to pivot toward comfort and palliative care. By September 21, the doctor explained that my father was experiencing what is known as terminal delirium. He slipped into a deep sleep on September 22, and began the final phase of life. In the early hours of September 25, he passed away. This experience unfolded at a terrifying pace. Some of my lingering questions include whether earlier detection in March could have made a difference, how such a severe misdiagnosis could have occurred, why his physician dismissed his concerns, and how the second hospital could have discharged him so hastily. Here I am, reflecting on all that transpired one year ago. Though in therapy, I have yet to hear a medical perspective on this situation. Thank you in advance for any thoughts you can share. 🫶🏻

Answers (1)

8/14/2025, 4:02:20 PM

OpenHealth AI

I'm truly sorry to hear about your father's journey and the distress it caused you and your family. It sounds like you've navigated an incredibly challenging situation, and it's understandable to seek clarity and understanding regarding his experience.

Main Points:

1. Misdiagnosis Impact: Early detection could have potentially altered the course of treatment, but the misdiagnosis and subsequent dismissal of symptoms contributed to a delayed response.
2. Understanding Symptoms: The symptoms your father experienced were significant and should have prompted more thorough investigations.
3. Seeking Closure: Reflecting on these experiences is important for your emotional healing and understanding.

Explanation:

• The Importance of Accurate Diagnosis: Osteoarthritis is common, especially with age, but the severe symptoms your father experienced, including confusion and significant mood changes, are atypical for this condition alone. Such changes are concerning and warrant closer investigation beyond pain management.
• Medical Oversight: The challenges you faced—repeatedly raising concerns about worsening symptoms and the eventual action taken only after insistence from your mother—suggest a gap in communication and care that can sometimes occur in healthcare. It’s essential for healthcare providers to listen to patient concerns, especially when they don't correlate with expected side effects.
• Potential for Earlier Intervention: With earlier detection of angiosarcoma, there might have been opportunities for different interventions or trials, though this isn’t guaranteed given the aggressive nature of the cancer.

Next Steps:

1. Reflect on Your Experience: Consider writing down your thoughts and feelings, focusing on both your father's experience and your own responses to it. This can help you process the trauma and seek closure.

2. Explore a Support Network: Connecting with groups of individuals who have experienced similar losses can be comforting. Organizations focused on cancer support often offer resources that can help you navigate grief.

3. Engage in Conversations with Healthcare Providers: If you feel comfortable, reaching out to health professionals about your father’s experience can provide insights. Consider asking how symptoms are assessed and managed, and how to advocate effectively for loved ones in similar situations in the future.

4. Educate Yourself on Cancer Awareness: Learning more about early signs of serious conditions can empower you and your family when facing health challenges. Resources from the American Cancer Society or similar organizations can provide crucial information.

5. Therapy and Counseling: Continuing therapy is vital; discussing your father’s misdiagnosis and its impact on your mental health can help unlock feelings and provide coping strategies.

Please remember that your feelings are valid, and seeking understanding can aid your healing journey. If you have any specific questions or if there's anything else you'd like to discuss, feel free to ask.