An inquest revealed that a woman passed away due to receiving medication for a misdiagnosed infection. Audrey Newman, who experienced a seizure at home, was hospitalized at Stepping Hill Hospital in Stockport on November 11 under suspicion of having encephalitis, a condition causing brain inflammation. However, the necessary lumbar puncture to confirm the diagnosis was delayed for a week due to a lack of proficient ward doctors and consultant oversight.
During the delay, Newman was prescribed acyclovir, an antiviral drug known to pose a risk of kidney failure. By the time the lumbar puncture was eventually conducted, she had already developed severe renal failure that was unresponsive to treatment. Subsequent tests indicated she did not have encephalitis, and Newman tragically passed away on November 24.
The coroner’s court in Stockport ruled that Newman died from the acknowledged risks associated with antiviral therapy for a suspected life-threatening condition. Assistant coroner Andrew Bridgeman issued a warning to the CEO of Stockport NHS Foundation Trust, emphasizing the need for preventive measures to avoid similar tragedies in the future.
It was mentioned during the inquest that had the lumbar puncture been performed promptly after Newman’s admission, the negative results would have led to the cessation of antiviral and antibiotic treatment within 24 hours.
Following an internal investigation termed ‘Lessons Learned Overview’ after Newman’s death, the trust initiated training sessions for ward doctors on conducting lumbar punctures. However, Bridgeman noted the absence of a formal process for seeking assistance in situations where patients are uncooperative or a trained doctor is unavailable.
In a report on preventing future deaths, Bridgeman highlighted the importance of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis for diagnosing meningitis or encephalitis in suspected infection cases. He also underscored the well-known risk of renal injury associated with acyclovir. Additionally, he raised concerns about the lack of a structured pathway or referral process to the anaesthetic team, warning of potential delays in crucial diagnostic tests and the risk of fatal outcomes.
In response to the concerns raised, a spokesperson for Stockport NHS Foundation Trust expressed condolences to Newman’s family and indicated that the organization is evaluating the coroner’s recommendations.
At Reach and our affiliated entities, we utilize data collected through cookies and other means to enhance user experience, analyze site usage, and deliver personalized advertisements. Users can opt out of data sharing by clicking the designated button on our webpage. By using our services, you consent to our use of cookies and agree to our Privacy Notice and Terms and Conditions.