Undiagnosed cardiac arrest led to woman's death, suit claims

The administrator of a deceased woman's estate has filed suit against the doctor who he says failed to recognize she was having a cardiac arrest.

Ronall Pratt claims Barbara Jean Pratt went to Dr. Anthony E. Malench on Jan. 21, complaining of having been awakened with pain in the left side of her neck, left arm and left lateral chest area.

Barbara Jean Pratt informed Malench the pain was consistent, according to the complaint filed July 20 in Madison County Circuit Court.

Malench diagnosed Barbara Jean Pratt with cervical radiculitis, the suit states.

However, Barbara Jean Pratt suffered a cardiac arrest that led to her death on Jan. 27, the complaint says.

Ronall Pratt claims Malench negligently failed to recognize Pratt was being treated for hypertension and elevated cholesterol, failed to evaluate Pratt for an acute coronary syndrome and failed to arrange for Pratt's admission to the hospital.

Ronall Pratt is seeking a judgment of more than $50,000, plus costs.

John J. Hopkins of John J. Hopkins and Associates in Edwardsville will be representing him.

Madison County Circuit Court case number: 09-L-747.