LOUISIANA RECORD

GRETNA – A doctor is being sued by a woman who claims she was misdiagnosed with a serious condition for which she was treated for nearly two years.

Joann Howard, and husband Andrew, filed suit against Michael A. Wilensky, M.D. and Louisiana Patient’s Compensation Fund Oversight Board in the 24th Judicial District Court on Dec. 14. Howard claims that she was misdiagnosed with multiple sclerosis, a permanent and debilitating condition, by Wilensky for which he treated her for nearly two years before discharging her from his care without explanation. The plaintiff alleges that Wilensky incorrectly maintained that the plaintiff had multiple sclerosis despite two second opinions that did not find she had the disease. Howard claims Wilensky turned her into an invalid by not treating her true disorder, which was of a psychiatric nature.

Wilensky is accused of misdiagnosing the plaintiffs psychiatric disorder as multiple sclerosis, failing to properly diagnose her condition, failing to properly advise the plaintiff that she was not suffering from multiple sclerosis when she really was, failing to interpret all of the negative testing the plaintiff underwent, failing to refer the plaintiff for psychiatric evaluation, failing to properly examine the plaintiff, failing to record the results of physical examinations, failing to advise the plaintiff she did not suffer from multiple sclerosis, failing to order appropriate medication for a psychiatric condition and failing to advise the plaintiff her complaints were related to a psychiatric disorder.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for physical pain and suffering, mental psychiatric suffering, loss of income, loss of enjoyment of life, medical expenses, loss of consortium and loss of marriage.

Howard is represented by Kevin M. Gennusa of Metairie-based Gennusa, Piacun & Ruli.

The case has been assigned to Division L Judge Donald A. Rowan.

Case no. 722-121.