Mother Claims AI Found Correct Diagnosis For Her Sick Son

Artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed various industries globally, streamlining everyday tasks for increased efficiency and affording more time for critical activities.

AI's impact reached a significant milestone when an anxious mother turned to ChatGPT to seek a diagnosis for her four-year-old son, who had been grappling with persistent toothache and stunted growth.

The young boy, named Alex, and his mother, Courtney, had endured a three-year-long medical mystery marked by severe pain and unexpected symptoms.

A Mother's Ordeal

Courtney recounted their ordeal, explaining, "I had to administer Motrin (a pain-relief medication) to him daily, or he would have these intense meltdowns. When he had Motrin, he was perfectly fine."

This distressing ordeal started during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic when Alex started chewing on objects, causing discomfort and prompting his mother to seek medical assistance. Despite consulting numerous doctors and even visiting the emergency room, the root cause of Alex's suffering remained elusive. Courtney's relentless determination to uncover answers led her to spend sleepless nights researching medical information online.

In addition to his toothache, Alex's growth rate had decelerated, intensifying concerns. One doctor suggested that it could be a lingering consequence of COVID-19, yet the situation remained unresolved. 

Frustrated after consulting 17 doctors without a conclusive diagnosis, Courtney turned to an unlikely source, ChatGPT. She shared Alex's symptoms with the AI tool, hoping for some insight. To her astonishment, ChatGPT proposed a rare neurological condition known as tethered cord syndrome.

What Happened Next?

Equipped with this newfound knowledge, Courtney joined a Facebook group comprising parents whose children also grappled with this condition. She meticulously scrutinised Alex's MRI records, cross-referencing them with guidance from ChatGPT. One specific detail caught her attention – Alex's discomfort when sitting cross-legged, which she believed indicated a structural issue.

Without delay, Courtney scheduled an appointment with a neurosurgeon, conveying her suspicion of tethered cord syndrome. The neurosurgeon reviewed the MRI and confirmed Alex's diagnosis, marking a pivotal moment in their medical journey. 

Not The First Incident

This extraordinary occurrence isn't the first instance of ChatGPT assisting in medical diagnoses. Earlier this year, a Twitter user shared how the AI tool accurately aided in identifying a diagnosis for their pet dog when conventional doctors had failed to do so.

Over time, AI tools have consistently demonstrated their value and expertise in improving people's lives, even as reports emerge of job losses due to AI in certain industries worldwide.

Suggested Reading: How AI Helped Paralysed Woman Speak For First Time In 18 Years