Coroner's Finding: Clancy, Carmen Jayne

37y · Female·sepsis secondary to rectosigmoid perforation on a background of metastatic squamous cell cervical cancer

Carmen Jayne Clancy, aged 37, died on 27 September 2022 from sepsis secondary to rectosigmoid perforation caused by metastatic cervical cancer. Incarcerated on home detention following a cancer diagnosis in 2021, she underwent chemotherapy and radiotherapy but her cancer recurred with widespread metastases. In August 2022, malignant invasion of the colon caused perforation requiring emergency laparotomy and Hartmann's procedure. Post-operative complications developed including rectal stump perforation and enterocutaneous fistula, ultimately leading to sepsis and death. The coroner examined concerns raised by her mother regarding delays in diagnosis (2012–2021) and adequacy of hospital care. While the delayed diagnosis from an abnormal cervical screening in 2012 was regrettable, the coroner found that cancer was diagnosed promptly upon incarceration and that all subsequent medical care was appropriate and timely. No deficiencies in hospital care were identified, and no recommendations were made.