AI can analyze smartphone 'rash selfies' to diagnose Lyme disease

Artificial intelligence can be used to evaluate smartphone photos of suspicious rashes and detect Lyme disease earlier, according to a new study. Lyme disease affects roughly 300,000 people in the US every year and is transmitted through the bite of an infected deer tick. A painless rash, called Erythema migrans (EM), usually appears a week or so later, followed by more serious symptoms including fever, headache, chills, joint pain and swollen lymph glands. Lyme disease is most effectively treated if caught early. Untreated, it can cause cognitive impairment, chronic fatigue, heart palpitations and painful swelling that can last from months to years.