Prolonged chemotherapy case study: David Bown's story

David Bown was 31 years old and working when he began experiencing seizures in 2016. Scans at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire showed what appeared to be a low-grade brain tumour — identified as most likely being a Grade 2 astrocytoma or oligodendroglioma. 

At the time, David had a fulfilling job, working full-time as an IT systems manager. He was very fit and active — playing football regularly, as well as coaching and managing an under-9s team. He had a busy social life and would regularly meet friends at weekends, enjoying games of darts and pool with them at the pub.

No alternatives & delayed scans

That would all start to change on 1 June 2016 when David underwent surgery to remove his tumour. Multiple biopsies were taken to be sent to the pathology lab to establish the diagnosis. David believes that alternatives to surgery — including ongoing surveillance or biopsy — weren't adequately discussed during the consent process. 

During surgery, only a partial resection was achieved. Post operatively, instructions included a mandatory MRI scan within 24 to 48 hours to assess the extent of the resection and identify any early complications However, according to the medical records, the scan was delayed until 5 June — some four days later — and then only a CT head scan was performed, rather than an MRI. 

Post-op, CT scans & further surgery

In the immediate post operative period, David remained clinically stable and he was transferred to a step down unit. On 4 June, a nurse observed seizure activity. The on-call doctor was made aware. Further seizures activity continued throughout 5 June despite anti-convulsant medication being prescribed. By the evening, his pupils were unequal. He was finally sent for a CT scan which revealed bleeding and swelling of the brain, causing the brain to shift and fluid to build up dangerously. 

Despite these critical findings, the only immediate action was to stop the anticoagulant. David wasn't referred back for surgery. Overnight, he experienced further seizures and progressive decline in consciousness. He became confused and struggled to open his right eye. His left pupil then became fixed. A further CT was performed confirming ongoing pressure on the brain and ongoing build-up of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain cavity. He was then taken to theatre for emergency surgery for extraction of the blood clot and placement of a drain and further tumour resection. 

The eventual surgery relieved the pressure on the brain and drained the fluid. It's David’s case that delayed scanning and surgical intervention was performed too late to prevent irreversible neurological damage.

Temozolomide treatment

Despite biopsy results confirming a low-grade tumour, David was referred to neuro oncology and treated as though he had an aggressive, high-grade disease. He was prescribed temozolomide chemotherapy and continued on the drug for over eight years — far longer than clinical guidelines recommend. Standard guidance suggests six cycles or a maximum of twelve months, particularly for low-grade gliomas. 

Independent experts have since concluded that the prolonged chemotherapy exposed David to unnecessary risks, including increased chances of secondary blood cancers.

Impact on David's life

Today, David lives with significant cognitive and visual impairment. He requires daily support from his parents to manage his medication, prepare meals and attend appointments. The stroke caused serious and permanent visual impairment, limiting his independence further. He can't be left alone to cook due to impaired visual and memory problems and safety concerns and his social interaction is minimal. Despite never previously complaining of psychological issues, he has now also experienced depression, linked directly to the years of debilitating treatment. 

David is largely dependent on his parents for daily living and is unable to work, live independently or enjoy a fulfilling social life. His legal team says that the failures in his care — from consent and surgical planning to the delayed recognition of complications post-operatively and the prolonged, inappropriate chemotherapy — have had a devastating and irreversible impact on his life.

David said: "I went from living a normal, active life — working, coaching kids' football, seeing my mates — to being completely dependent on my mum and dad for everything. I trusted the hospital to do what was best for me but looking back, I just can't understand why I was treated the way I was for so long. It has taken everything from me."

"David was a young man with his whole future ahead of him," said our own Fiona Tinsley (Partner and Head of Clinical Negligence & Serious Injury). "The cumulative effect of these failings has robbed him of his independence, his health and years of his life."

Talk to us

As the leading national firm in uncovering and addressing negligence in cases like David's, we can help you to understand what went wrong and how to seek justice.

Following fresh concerns about cancer care across Coventry & Warwickshire, we're encouraging any current or former patients who believe they may have been affected to review their treatment history and — if they wish — to seek independent advice.

Our specialist team provides:

• Full review of tumour pathology, scan interpretation and neurosurgical decision-making.
• Expert opinions from neurosurgeons, neuroradiologists, neuro-oncologists and neuropathologists.
• Explanation of what went wrong and where errors occurred.
• Guidance through NHS complaints and legal claims.
• Support in securing compensation for the physical, emotional and financial impact.

You can speak to us confidentially for free, no-obligation advice. We can also come to meet you where you’re located.

We offer a free initial consultation and most claims proceed under a ‘no win, no fee’ agreement.

Taking the first step can make all the difference. Talk to us by giving us a call on 0333 004 4488, sending us an email at medneg@brabners.com or completing our contact form.