Steven was just 17-years-old when a delayed diagnosis of meningococcal meningitis changed his life forever. Two hours after being sent home by his GP despite red flag symptoms resulted in a permanent brain injury.
How Steven’s Meningitis Was Misdiagnosed
Steven became unwell with a headache and vomiting. He woke the following morning with an excruciating headache and had a stiff neck and a rash all over his face and body.
When his mum took him to the GP, Steven explained his symptoms and a brief examination was carried out. Despite the presence of several classic meningitis warning signs, the GP concluded his symptoms were either chickenpox or a virus, and he was sent home with advice to rest and take painkillers.
As the day progressed, Steven’s condition deteriorated rapidly. He became confused and got into a cold shower fully clothed in an attempt to relieve the pain in his head. His family were so alarmed that they called an ambulance. During the wait, his condition worsened further. He struggled to speak, his mouth began to droop, and his hands became rigid.
Even when a first responder arrived, Steven’s family felt his condition was still not being taken seriously. It was only when he reached hospital that the severity of his situation was finally recognised.
Steven’s Diagnosis and the Consequences of Delayed Treatment
Steven was diagnosed with meningococcal meningitis and rushed for emergency treatment. He experienced multiple seizures and significant brain swelling. Scans revealed brain injuries caused by the infection, resulting in hearing loss, cognitive difficulties and persistent fatigue. Challenges that continue to affect his daily life.
The impact on his future has been profound. Steven had been a high-performing student with ambitions to study economics and pursue a career in investment banking. Due to the injuries he sustained, he was unable to complete his degree, and his long-held goals became impossible to achieve.
Symptoms of Meningitis, and Why They Were Missed
Steven presented with several red flag symptoms at his GP appointment that morning, including:
- A persistent and severe headache
- A rash
- A stiff neck
- Vomiting
These are among the most widely recognised warning signs of meningitis. Meningitis Now lists the key symptoms as: fever with cold hands and feet, vomiting, drowsiness or difficulty waking, confusion and irritability, severe muscle pain, pale blotchy skin or a rash (see the Glass Test), severe headache, stiff neck, dislike of bright lights, and convulsions or seizures.
It is important to note that symptoms can appear in any order and a person may not experience all of them. Someone with meningitis or septicaemia can deteriorate very quickly, so the advice is to keep checking on them and seek urgent medical help if you are concerned.
Chickenpox or Meningitis? Why the Two Are Sometimes Confused
One of the reasons meningitis can be misdiagnosed is that some of its early symptoms can resemble other common illnesses, including chickenpox. Both conditions can present with a rash and a general feeling of being unwell, which can make it difficult to distinguish between the two without careful examination.
However, there are important differences. A chickenpox rash typically appears as small, itchy blisters spread across the body, whereas a meningitis rash often looks like small red or purple pinprick spots that can develop into larger blotches. Crucially, a meningitis rash will not fade when a glass is pressed against it, which is known as the Glass Test.
Other symptoms, such as a stiff neck, severe headache, sensitivity to light and a high fever are also far more closely associated with meningitis than chickenpox. If there is any doubt about your condition, you are advised to always seek emergency medical attention immediately.
Making a Meningitis Misdiagnosis Claim
As a result of the GP’s alleged failure to recognise the symptoms of meningitis, a delay of just two hours resulted in Steven sustaining permanent, life-changing injuries that we believe could otherwise have been avoided.
CL Medilaw pursued a meningitis negligence claim on Steven’s behalf, securing a negotiated seven figure sum of compensation that provides financial security for his future.
Steven’s father said following the mediation:
“Thank you for taking on Steven’s case and for being so diligent, approachable and informative throughout the period. Furthermore, thank you for reaching a substantial award in a difficult case. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
Charlotte Moore, Steven’s solicitor, said:
“Steven’s case highlights the importance of seeking urgent medical attention when symptoms of meningitis or sepsis appear. Even a short delay in treatment can have devastating consequences. The determination shown by Steven’s family in pushing for further investigation of his symptoms — despite initial reassurance from a GP — highlights the need for healthcare professionals to take families’ concerns seriously.”
Frequently Asked Questions About Meningitis Misdiagnosis Claims
Can I make a claim if meningitis was misdiagnosed? Yes. If a GP or other healthcare professional failed to recognise the symptoms of meningitis and that delay caused harm, you may have grounds for a meningitis misdiagnosis claim. Each case is assessed individually, and a free initial consultation can help establish whether you have a case.
How long do meningitis negligence claims take? The timescale varies depending on the complexity of the case, but medical negligence claims of this nature can take several years to resolve. Your solicitor will keep you informed throughout the process.
What compensation can I receive for meningitis misdiagnosis? Compensation in meningitis misdiagnosis cases will depend on the severity of the injuries sustained and their impact on your life, including loss of earnings, care needs, and long-term prognosis. Settlements can be substantial where life-changing injuries have occurred.
Is there a time limit for making a meningitis misdiagnosis claim? In most cases, you have three years from the date of the negligence — or from when you became aware of it — to bring a claim. Different rules apply for children and those who lack mental capacity.
Get the Support You Deserve with CL Medilaw
If you or someone you love has been affected by a delayed or missed diagnosis of meningitis, we understand how overwhelming that can feel. Our team is here to help you understand your options, with no pressure and no obligation.
Get in touch today for a free initial consultation.
