ChatGPT, which works by predicting the next word in a sentence based on existing internet text data, is seen as a beneficial tool for patients with complicated conditions struggling to get a diagnosis. However, experts warn that it is not likely to replace a clinician’s expertise anytime soon, as it sometimes fabricates information when it can't find the answer.
Key takeaways:
- Courtney, a mother, used the artificial intelligence platform ChatGPT to diagnose her son Alex's mysterious symptoms, which turned out to be tethered cord syndrome.
- Tethered cord syndrome is a condition where the spinal cord forms attachments that limit its movement, causing it to stretch abnormally. It can be associated with spina bifida, a birth defect where part of the spinal cord doesn’t develop fully.
- ChatGPT is an AI program that predicts the next word in a sentence or series of words based on existing text data on the internet. It can be especially beneficial for patients with complicated conditions who are struggling to get a diagnosis.
- Despite its benefits, ChatGPT is not likely to replace a clinician’s expertise anytime soon, as it can sometimes fabricate information when it can't find the answer, a phenomenon known as "hallucination".