Man Credits AI with Lyme Disease Diagnosis After Years of Misdiagnosis

A man in southern England says artificial intelligence helped him receive a Lyme disease diagnosis after years of experiencing debilitating symptoms and being told by doctors his issues were likely anxiety-related, sparking debate about the role of AI in healthcare.

Oliver Moazzezi, of Whiteley, began experiencing symptoms including tinnitus, high blood pressure, extreme fatigue, and muscle spasms three years ago, following a tick bite from a cat that frequented nearby woods. Unsatisfied with previous medical explanations, Moazzezi input his symptoms into an AI program, which suggested Lyme disease. A subsequent test with a private doctor confirmed the diagnosis. “I felt like I was being a hypochondriac, I felt like no-one actually wanted to understand or look at all the things I was trying to explain to people quite eloquently,” he said. He is now undergoing treatment and reports his tinnitus has subsided, allowing him to once again hear sounds like wind and birdsong.

Lyme disease is a bacterial infection spread to humans by infected ticks, and can cause a range of symptoms that often mimic other conditions, making diagnosis difficult. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a circular rash around a tick bite is a common early symptom, but not everyone develops one. Tick-borne disease specialist Georgia Tuckey notes that current surveillance methods may underestimate the true prevalence of Lyme disease in the UK, with only laboratory-confirmed cases currently factored into investment decisions. You can learn more about tick prevention and Lyme disease on the NHS website.

While Moazzezi credits AI with his diagnosis, experts caution against self-diagnosis using these tools. Professor Ella Haig of Portsmouth University questioned whether individuals would trust AI-generated information without consulting a healthcare professional. Hampshire and Isle of Wight Integrated Care Board stated they are sorry to hear of the individual’s experience and continue to evaluate how technology can safely support clinicians in patient care.

The Integrated Care Board confirmed they are reviewing the case and reiterated their encouragement for anyone concerned about their health to consult a trained clinician or visit 111 online for guidance.