This case illustrates the issue of truth-telling about a diagnosis of a potentially terminal illness. A family member of an elderly patient requests that the treating doctor does not disclose the diagnosis to the mother for fear that it will distress her and cause her anxiety. The challenge of the treating doctor is how to deal with this in a professional and ethical manner.
This case illustrates the role of a woman's autonomy in deciding her medical management and the ethical issue which occurred when a husband refuses the management for her even though it was clearly indicated.