Woman, 54, with terminal cervical cancer settles case over smear tests

A 54-year-old woman with terminal cervical cancer has settled a High Court action against the HSE and a US laboratory over alleged misinterpretation of smear tests. The action involved tests taken between 2011 and 2018. The case was resolved after mediation this week. The settlement, without an admission of liability, was against the HSE and Quest Diagnostics Incorporated, based in New Jersey.

The woman claimed that delays led to loss of cure opportunity, severe life expectancy impact, and catastrophic damage to her quality of life. Her cancer allegedly developed and spread undetected until diagnosed in late 2024. The legal process revealed a series of smear tests and medical actions taken over the years, with claims that correct reporting could have altered her treatment path, potentially curing the pre-cancerous condition.

Despite denials of the claims, the case was settled. The presiding judge expressed satisfaction at the resolution.