A British-Indian medical professor, described as a “brilliant” doctor by his colleagues, tragically died due to mishandled treatment of a rare condition he suffered from, a legal official has ruled.
Prof. Amit Patel, a father of two, was renowned for his expertise in stem cell transplantation and suffered fatal internal bleeding following a botched procedure, UK’s Daily Mail reported. The report cited a “coroner,” a legal official responsible for determining the cause of deaths.
In August 2021, Patel, 43, sought treatment at Wythenshawe Hospital in Manchester for flu-like symptoms believed to be linked to a throat infection. Medical professionals diagnosed him with Still’s disease, a rare inflammatory condition, which led to a potentially lethal immune disorder known as HLH.
READ MORE: British-Indian Doctor’s Widow Alleges Medical Negligence In Rare Disease Treatment
Consultation between hospital staff and the HLH MDT recommended an endobronchial ultrasound-guided biopsy (EBUS) to examine Patel’s lungs for inflammation. However, Patel had also developed disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), a serious blood clotting disorder, which wasn’t communicated to the HLH MDT. Had they been informed, they would have advised against the procedure.
Coroner Zak Golombek slammed the hospital for not providing complete information, leading to a fatal recommendation. Golombek highlighted flaws in the consent process, noting Patel wasn’t adequately informed about his condition’s implications or given time to consider the procedure’s risks. Patel underwent the EBUS procedure, which exacerbated his condition, resulting in significant internal bleeding and respiratory compromise.
Transferred to Manchester Royal Infirmary, Patel passed away on October 28, 2021. Golombek concluded that Patel’s case wasn’t properly presented to the HLH MDT, leading to the inappropriate procedure. He stressed failures in Patel’s care, stating they were not systemic but individual lapses. The coroner lauded Patel’s brilliance and contributions to medicine.
The widow of a renowned British-Indian doctor earlier made claims of medical negligence in her husband’s treatment. “He was exceptionally brilliant as a doctor, and an amazing human being,’ his widow told the hearing. …He was probably one of the most knowledgeable and best doctors that the UK had,” said his widow.
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