Diagnostics laboratory sued for allegedly false test result

NEW ORLEANS – A New Orleans woman is suing a doctor and a Metairie-based diagnostics lab for allegedly giving her incorrect medical test results.

Kim Callihan filed suit against Quest Diagnostics Clinical Laboratories, Dr. Susan Jeanfreau, Fleur De Lis OB/GYN Associates and their insurers in the Orleans Parish Central DIstrict Court on May 18.

Callihan claims she received an abnormal PAP smear from Dr. Jeanfreau and Fleur De Lis OB/GYN Associates after receiving normal results for nine out of the previous 10 years. The plaintiff alleges her samples was sent to Quest for testing for cancerous cells, which were not found. Callihan asserts those tests came back as falsely negative and she found out she had cervical cancer, the signs of which were allegedly ignored by Dr. Jeanfreau. The plaintiff claims due to the incompetence of the defendants she had to undergo surgery, chemotherapy and radiation treatments for advanced cancer.

The defendants are accused of indifference to the consequences and acting only out of self interest and personal gain.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for sever and personal injuries, pain and suffering, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of loofa, medical expenses and attorney's fees.

Callihan is represented by Douglas R. Plymale of the New Orleans-based Plymale Law Firm.

The case has been assigned to Division J Judge Paul A. Brown.

Case number 2012-05035.