Georgiana Coffman
Daily Egyptian
The Illinois Department of Professional Regulation took action against a Carbondale doctor on grounds that she dismissed her duty to a female patient by not testing the contents of a reappearing breast growth for cancer.
According to the IDPR, a patient of physician Marsha Ryan presented what appeared to be a breast cyst at an appointment scheduled during the 11th week of the patient's pregnancy. The patient then agreed to have the contents of the cyst emptied.
As Ryan removed the contents of the cyst, she noted that there was no blood present, and the procedure was completed with no apparent residue left behind. Weeks later, the patient returned because the cyst had reappeared. Ryan then re-drained the cyst.
According to the department, the second incision was the result of an infection within the cyst. After the drainage, Ryan suggested removing the cyst, but the patient declined because of her pregnancy.
When the patient's child was born, another doctor diagnosed the cyst as cancerous. As a result of the diagnosis, Ryan's practice was reviewed. Ryan is being held accountable for allegedly breaching her duty in a matter that resulted in harm to her patient.
The Illinois Department of Professional Regulation is a state agency in charge of regulating the conduct of those with state licenses including doctors, nurses and dental hygienists.
According to IDPR Public Information Officer, Tony Sanders, the allegations against Ryan could have resulted in suspension or revocation of her medical practice license. In an informal conference with the Medical Disciplinary Board of the State of Illinois, Ryan was presented with the options to contest the charges and to have the case reviewed by a second administrative team.
"Ryan waived her rights and accepted the charges as given," Sanders said. "The disciplinary action we agreed upon was public admonishment."
According to Sanders, this is a matter the public needs to know about. Despite the charges, Ryan is still permitted to practice medicine. The IDPR believes the disciplinary measures were fair and equitable and were administered with the best interests of the people involved.
Published on 11/17/05; 12:24:44 PM
