Utilizing Artificial Intelligence for diagnosing diseases can make a significant impact on complex and uncommon cases.
During the COVID-19 lockdown, 4-year-old Alex began experiencing pain. His mother took him to the dentist when he started chewing on things. What unfolded next was a three-year quest to uncover the root of Alex's escalating pain and eventual additional symptoms.
The beginning of the end of the journey came earlier this year when Courtney, Alex's mother, finally got some answers from an unexpected source: ChatGPT. By inputting Alex's medical information, line by line, along with everything from his MRI notes in hopes of finding solutions, the AI diagnosed Alex with tethered cord syndrome.
Eventually, she joined a Facebook group for families of children with this condition. Their stories resonated with Alex's journey. She then scheduled an appointment with a new neurosurgeon.
This story highlights a common challenge in the traditional diagnosis of such conditions. Often, doctors from different specialties may provide isolated and different diagnoses while trying to explain uncommon symptoms.
In such scenarios, Artificial Intelligence can play a crucial role in offering a fresh perspective when identifying these conditions.
Artificial Intelligence, like in the case of ChatGPT, can serve as a valuable tool in diagnosing uncommon diseases. Its ability to analyze vast amounts of medical information and compare it to a knowledge database allows for the identification of patterns and potential diagnoses that may have been overlooked by medical professionals.
In Alex's case, Artificial Intelligence was able to pinpoint the correct diagnosis, a feat that eluded 17 doctors from various specialties. It is crucial to acknowledge that AI should not replace the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals but rather be seen as a valuable adjunct to their work.
While Artificial Intelligence can be a powerful support tool in medicine, it is essential that its use is supervised by professionals. AI should not replace clinical experience and medical knowledge but rather act as a complement and support tool.
Doctors should consider the findings presented by AI, but they must also critically analyze and interpret them in light of their experience and expertise. This technology has proven to be a valuable tool, but it should always be used responsibly and ethically.