science
ChatGPT Suggests Rare Condition for Woman After Years of Medical Misdiagnoses in UK
Phoebe Tesoriere, a 23-year-old from Cardiff, experienced years of misdiagnoses for symptoms including seizures and mobility issues. After a coma-inducing seizure in July 2025, she inputted her symptoms into ChatGPT, which suggested hereditary spastic paraplegia, later confirmed by genetic testing. Health officials emphasized discussing AI-generated suggestions with medical professionals.
Apr 9, 5:42 PM·1m read1 source
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Doctors diagnosed her with Todd's Paralysis, a temporary paralysis following seizures in epilepsy patients.
Upon recovery, the woman entered her symptoms into ChatGPT, which listed possible conditions including hereditary spastic paraplegia. She discussed the suggestion with her partner before consulting her general practitioner, who deemed it plausible. Genetic testing confirmed the diagnosis of hereditary spastic paraplegia.
The National Health Service states that the prevalence of this condition is unknown due to frequent misdiagnoses. Symptoms are managed through physiotherapy.
Officials stated it could not comment on individual cases but invited her to contact their concerns team.
Health authorities noted that AI tools can serve as a starting point for discussions but should be followed by professional medical consultation.
The woman, now using a wheelchair, can no longer work. She is pursuing further education.
