Is a second opinion crucial for major health diagnosis? Here’s what health experts have to say

Tishaa Kumar

The tragic death of Tishaa Kumar, daughter of Krishna Kumar (brother of music mogul Bhushan Kumar), has once again renewed what medical experts have been suggesting all along. That it is always good to seek a second opinion when it comes to about diagnosing a serious health concern.

Initially reported to have died due to  cancer, Tishaa’s tragic passing in July, took a shocking turn when her mother Tanya revealed in a heartfelt Instagram post recently that Tishaa was never diagnosed with cancer. Instead, the mother believes that an autoimmune disorder triggered by a vaccine was misdiagnosed.

Tanya urged parents to seek multiple opinions if their child has swollen lymph nodes, as they can be caused by infections or emotional trauma, not just cancer. She also criticised medical malpractice, sharing her pain over losing her daughter to a misdiagnosis.

The grieving mother’s emotional post triggers a crucial point; when faced with serious health concerns, especially ones with ambiguous or overlapping symptoms, it is vital for patients and families to seek multiple medical opinions. In her case, had a second opinion been sought, Tishaa’s condition might have been diagnosed correctly, even saving her life.
The value of a second opinion: 

Medical experts agree that second opinions are particularly important when dealing with life-threatening conditions like cancer or rare autoimmune diseases. Getting a second opinion can help verify the accuracy of a diagnosis, provide clarity on treatment options, and potentially uncover new treatments or clinical trials that may have been overlooked. Dr. Pankaj Goyal, Senior Consultant, Medical Oncology at Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre, says that in fields like oncology, multiple treatment paths may be available. "In cancer treatment, there are often different ways to approach a diagnosis, and no one treatment plan works for everyone," he says, adding, "A second opinion can provide a fresh perspective, which can help you feel confident that you're on the right track." This is particularly important in the early stages of treatment, as early decisions can drastically affect outcomes.

In addition, Dr. Goyal points out that seeking another opinion might reveal treatment options or clinical trials that weren't considered in the initial diagnosis. "Some hospitals may offer access to new or experimental treatments that could be critical for the patient’s recovery," he says.

Dr. Shubham Vatsya, Senior Consultant in Gastroenterology and Hepatology at Fortis Hospital, also stresses the importance of second opinions in diagnosing autoimmune diseases. These conditions are often difficult to identify because their symptoms can overlap with other disorders. "Autoimmune diseases like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis can often be misdiagnosed," says Dr. Vatsya. "A second opinion helps confirm the diagnosis and ensures that the patient receives the correct treatment,” he adds.

Besides, autoimmune diseases are complex and require specialised care. Dr. Vatsya says that not all gastroenterologists are up to date on the latest advancements in treatment, which is why seeing a second expert can provide better options. "In some cases, new treatments or minimally invasive therapies may be available that were not considered in the initial opinion," he says.
Ensuring accuracy and exploring treatment options: 

Misdiagnoses can have serious consequences, especially when it comes to rare diseases or complex conditions. Dr. Harish Bhatia, Founder Director, Rebreathe Clinic and Senior Consultant Chest Specialist, Apollo Hospital, suggests that rare pulmonary diseases or tumors often require expert input. "When dealing with rare or complex conditions, a second opinion can make all the difference in obtaining an accurate diagnosis," Dr. Bhatia explains. "For example, one doctor may recommend surgery, while another might suggest a non-invasive treatment like immunotherapy. A second opinion ensures that the patient receives the best possible treatment plan."

In addition to confirming the diagnosis, a second opinion can also help explore alternative treatment options. Dr. Bhatia opines that a physician from a research-focused institution might be more familiar with cutting-edge advancements in the field. "Second opinions give you the opportunity to consider therapies that may not have been offered in the first consultation, such as targeted therapies or immunotherapies," he says.Gaining confidence in the treatment plan:

Dr. Vaishali Zamre, Director, the  Breast Cancer Centre, Andromeda Cancer Hospital, Sonipat, agrees that a second opinion is essential, particularly when facing life-changing diseases like cancer. "Cancer treatment has advanced significantly over the years, and new therapies are continuously being developed," she explains. "For many patients, seeking a second opinion is a way to confirm that the treatment plan is the right one for them." Dr. Zamre also shares that that many patients who are diagnosed with cancer may seek a second opinion to clarify their options or to get more information on surgery, chemotherapy, or other treatments. "Sometimes patients are hesitant to undergo chemotherapy because of misconceptions about side effects. In such cases, a second opinion can provide clarity and reassurance."

Moreover, patients often seek a second opinion to explore financial options. Cancer treatments can be prohibitively expensive, and some patients may look for alternatives that fit their budget. "A second opinion can help patients better understand the treatment options available, as well as the costs involved," Dr. Zamre notes.