St James’s Hospital in Dublin has apologised to a young mother and settled her High Court action following a delayed breast cancer diagnosis. An abnormality identified on a breast MRI scan was not followed up for around eight months. By the time the cancer was diagnosed, she was in the third trimester of pregnancy and required a mastectomy.

According to RTÉ News, Seánagh Rice (33), who carries a BRCA2 gene variant and had been attending regular screening following her mother’s death from breast cancer, underwent a routine MRI at St James’s Hospital in April 2023.

The scan identified an abnormality measuring more than 3cm in her left breast, with further ultrasound investigation and/or a biopsy recommended. However, no follow-up investigations were arranged.

The omission came to light at her next scheduled surveillance appointment in January 2024, when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She subsequently underwent a left mastectomy and reconstruction while 31 weeks pregnant, followed by chemotherapy after the birth of her daughter.

The case was settled in the High Court on 20 October 2026, where a letter of apology from St James’s Hospital was read aloud.

In its apology, the hospital acknowledged that her experience had fallen below the standard of care it sought to uphold and expressed regret for the distress caused to her and her family. The hospital also reaffirmed its commitment to patient safety and high standards of care.

What this case highlights about delayed breast cancer diagnosis

In cancer care, timely investigation and follow-up are essential.

A delay between identifying an abnormality on a scan and carrying out the recommended investigations may affect when cancer is diagnosed and the treatment a patient requires.

In this case, the central concern was not that the initial scan had failed to identify an abnormality. Rather, a significant finding had been recorded, but the recommended follow-up investigations were not arranged.

For Ms Rice, the delayed breast cancer diagnosis had serious physical and emotional consequences during an already significant period of her life.

The case highlights the importance of ensuring that abnormal test results are communicated, investigated and acted upon appropriately.

How the claim works in Ireland

A medical negligence claim involving a delayed cancer diagnosis examines whether the care provided fell below the standard reasonably expected of the healthcare professionals or service involved.

In Ireland, the relevant legal principles are established by the Supreme Court decision in Dunne v National Maternity Hospital [1989] IR 91.

Where an abnormal scan result is recorded but not appropriately followed up, this may raise questions about whether the healthcare provider met the required standard of care.

However, a delayed diagnosis does not automatically establish medical negligence.

A successful claim generally requires evidence that the standard of care was breached and that the breach caused or materially contributed to the patient’s injury or loss.

Every case depends on its individual circumstances, medical records and independent expert evidence.

Time Limits

Medical negligence claims in Ireland are generally subject to a two-year limitation period under the Statute of Limitations (Amendment) Act 1991, as amended.

The two-year period usually runs from the date the cause of action arose or the date of knowledge, whichever is later.

In a delayed cancer diagnosis case, the date of knowledge may be later than the original medical appointment, particularly where the patient only discovers the potential failure in care during a subsequent investigation or medical review.

The date of knowledge depends on the circumstances of each case, so obtaining legal advice promptly is important.

How Coleman Legal LLP Can Help

Diane Treanor and our medical negligence team assist people across Ireland who have been affected by a delayed or missed diagnosis.

We request and review relevant medical records, instruct independent medical experts to assess whether the care provided met the required standard, and explain the legal process in clear, practical terms.

If you are concerned about a delay in your own or a family member’s cancer diagnosis, our solicitors can advise you in confidence about your legal options.