According to the attorneys representing them, at least 850 patients treated at the Endoscopy Center of Southern Nevada or the Desert Shadow Endoscopy Center have reported contracting hepatitis or another blood-borne illness due to the unsafe medical practices that went on for years at these facilities.

Hepatitis C infections

Patients who received a colonoscopy at the Endoscopy Center or Desert Shadow may be at the greatest risk of an infection with hepatitis C. This disease is spread when a person is exposed to blood from an infected individual, such as when sharing needles.

About 75-85% of people who are infected with hepatitis C develop a chronic infection. Among chronically infected patients, about 20% develop chronic liver disease. Because of this, hepatitis C is the leading cause of liver transplants.

The symptoms of hepatitis C include jaundice, fatigue, dark urine, abdominal pain, loss of appetite and nausea. However, since about 80% of people who develop a hepatitis C infection have no signs or symptoms, it is important that anyone who was treated at the Endoscopy Center or Desert Shadow go to their doctor as soon as possible so that they can be tested.

Hepatitis B infections

Some patients may also be at risk of a hepatitis B infection. Unlike hepatitis C, hepatitis B can be spread by other means than exposure to the blood of an infected person, including having sex with an infected person or household exposure to items such as razors or toothbrushes.

Patients who have tested positive for hepatitis C, hepatitis B or another blood-borne illness may with to contact a lawyer to learn more about ensuring that their legal rights are protected. 

 

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