AI Diagnoses Boy After 17 Doctors Could Not

By Elke Porter | WBN News Vancouver | May 13, 2025

After three years, 17 doctors, and mounting frustration, a mother turned to artificial intelligence for answers—and finally got a diagnosis that changed her son's life.

Courtney, a mother of two in the U.S., was desperate to understand why her then 4-year-old son Alex was in constant pain. What began as daily doses of Motrin turned into years of escalating symptoms: headaches, teeth grinding, difficulty walking, and developmental delays. Despite multiple specialists, including neurologists and pediatricians, no one could explain Alex’s worsening condition.

As a last resort, Courtney turned to ChatGPT. She entered detailed medical notes, MRI results, and seemingly minor details like Alex’s inability to sit "crisscross applesauce." The AI suggested a rare neurological condition: tethered cord syndrome—a disorder in which the spinal cord is abnormally attached within the spine, causing painful tension and nerve damage.

This suggestion led Courtney to a neurosurgeon who confirmed the diagnosis. Alex had spina bifida occulta with tethered cord syndrome. A few weeks ago, he underwent surgery to correct the issue and is now recovering.

While experts caution against relying solely on AI for medical diagnoses due to potential inaccuracies, this case highlights AI's potential as a tool for complex medical problem-solving.

“ChatGPT doesn’t replace doctors, but it can be a powerful partner in helping families ask better questions,” said Dr. Andrew Beam, a Harvard professor specializing in medical AI.

Courtney says her son is now hopeful and happier. “You have to be your kid’s advocate,” she told reporters. “Sometimes that means turning to unexpected sources.”

This story underscores how AI tools like ChatGPT, when used responsibly, can support families facing difficult diagnostic journeys—especially when conventional medical pathways fall short.

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