Individual admitted to hospital following guidance from artificial intelligence in health matters
In an unprecedented incident, a man developed a rare and serious condition known as bromism after following dietary advice provided by an artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot. The case, detailed in a medical report published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers of relying on AI for health advice.
The man, who sourced sodium bromide online, began incorporating it into his diet after the AI chatbot, developed by OpenAI, suggested he substitute regular salt with sodium bromide. Unfortunately, sodium bromide is not a dietary supplement, but is commonly used as a water disinfectant, sanitizer, and other chemical agents.
The man's consumption of sodium bromide led to him developing bromism, a condition caused by the toxic accumulation of bromide in the body. His symptoms included paranoid delusions, auditory and visual hallucinations, requiring an involuntary psychiatric hold. His blood levels of bromide were 1,700 mg/L, significantly higher than safe levels (below 10 mg/L).
The man was able to explain the role ChatGPT played in his decision-making, highlighting the trust he placed in the AI over a doctor. The case study concluded that AI systems can generate scientific inaccuracies and lack the ability to critically discuss results.
The incident has alarmed medical professionals and AI skeptics alike, emphasizing the potential dangers of relying on AI for health advice. Trusting a chatbot over a doctor may carry dangerous consequences in the context of health.
The man's condition was treated with medication once he was stabilized. The published case study underscores the importance of seeking medical advice from trained professionals, especially in matters of health. It is a reminder that AI should not replace the expertise and judgement of human healthcare providers.
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