Ethylene Oxide Exposure Leads to Multiple Myeloma

Case Overview

This case study delves into the life-altering implications of prolonged exposure to Ethylene Oxide (EtO), a potent carcinogen, on an individual who lived near an emitting facility.

The plaintiff, a 67-year-old former surgeon, resided between 3000 to 4000 feet from this facility, which released approximately 308,000 pounds of EtO into the atmosphere over three decades. Chronic exposure led to Multiple Myeloma diagnosis, a type of blood cancer. Subsequent transfusions resulted in Graves Host Disease, a severe complication.

The plaintiff suffers from spinal cord suppression, weakness in both lower extremities, acute bilateral thoracic back pain, and bone loss in the jaw. They are currently undergoing chemotherapy and have to travel considerable distances for treatment.

Professionally, their health condition forced them to close their private practice. This case seeks insights from a certified Life Care Planner to review and opine on the plaintiff’s past and future healthcare needs.

Questions to the expert and their responses

Please describe your professional background in life care planning, specifically as it relates to providing life care plans to individuals with multiple myeloma and/or Graves Host Disease.

I bring thirty years of experience in treating oncologic patients and providing expert opinions on their future care needs. As a medical forensic analyst, rehabilitation expert, and life care planner, I’ve worked extensively with patients diagnosed with both multiple myeloma and Graves Host Disease.

What pertinent clinical information would you consider when determining his future needs and costs?

To accurately determine future needs and associated costs, I would need more specific information about the current care plan for this plaintiff. Consulting with their health care providers about projected outcomes would also be crucial.

About the expert

This expert is a seasoned professional in physical therapy and life care planning with over two decades of experience. They hold advanced degrees from prestigious institutions and are a certified life care planner, licensed physical therapist, and member of several professional organizations including the American Academy of Pain Medicine and the International Academy of Life Care Planners. Currently, they serve as a medical-legal support specialist for a consultancy specializing in life care plans and also practice physical therapy privately, leveraging their past experiences as an acute care physical therapist, director of cardiopulmonary rehabilitation, and faculty professor.