A few publications indicate the reason for errors (e.g., "Because of a reporting/editing/transcription error ..." or "Incorrect information obtained from a news release..." or such). The LAT, like many large newspapers, does not.
Leslie
April 2006: Husband dx by dentist with leukoplakia on tongue. Oral surgeon's biopsy 4/28/06: Moderate dysplasia; pathology report warned of possible "skip effect." ENT's excisional biopsy (got it all) 5/31/06: SCC in situ/small bit superficially invasive. Early detection saves lives.
