Errors led to an “unreasonable delay” in diagnosing cancer in a woman who later died after the disease recurred following surgery, a watchdog has said.

The GP practice in the NHS Highland health board area has not been named. In the SPSO report, the patient has also not been identified and was described only as Mrs A. A complaint was made to the watchdog on behalf of her family following her death

Mrs A had breast cancer surgery in late 2012, during which an “extremely large high-grade tumour” was removed. The complaint alleged delays in diagnosing cancer. Seven months after having surgery, Mrs A contacted the practice about back pain and spasms. She also had a wheeze and cough.

Between 29 July 2013 and 19 August 2013 she had four telephone consultations with three GPs at the practice, who prescribed and adjusted pain relief medication. They later provided Mrs A with an inhaler. The day after the last consultation she contacted NHS 24 because she was having problems breathing.

It has also said the complaint should be discussed during the next annual appraisals of three GPs involved. NHS Highland said: “We’re aware of the report published today by the ombudsman. “This is for the GP practice to respond to and we would expect them to fully comply with all recommendations laid out in the report.”