Facts

Ana Jimenez-Salgado underwent a biopsy in both of her breasts. Two pathologists outside Los Angeles County USC (LAC+USC) interpreted the biopsy slides as cancerous. Based on that interpretation, Salgado underwent surgical breast removal at the LAC+USC. She underwent breast reconstruction surgery thereafter.

After surgery, LAC+USC pathologists examined the breast tissue and determined that Salgado did not have breast cancer. Instead, she suffered from benign conditions with features that were very similar to cancerous cells.

Salgado sued for medical malpractice against LAC+USC and the non-County pathologists.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS:
Plaintiff contended that County staff were negligent in relying on the interpretation of the outside pathologists and performed the breast reconstruction surgery causing her to suffer a great deal of pain.

Result

The County settled the matter for $198,000 including the assumption of Salgado's Medi-Cal lien in the amount of $24,756.