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Study Finds No Evidence of Mystery Brain Disease in New Brunswick

Peer-reviewed research attributes all examined cases to known conditions, dismissing environmental toxin links and emphasizing diagnostic missteps.

A new study published in JAMA Neurology debunks “an alleged ‘mystery’ neurological illness” that emerged in New Brunswick six years ago.
Of the 25 patients reassessed for the study, 14 are still living.
Many patients display symptoms of Alzheimers, but only by examining the brain after death can that be 100 per cent determined by viewing the damage. Neurological science has come far, but has unique challenges too.

Overview

  • A JAMA Neurology study reviewed 25 cases of suspected neurological syndrome and found all were attributable to well-known conditions, such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and traumatic brain injury.
  • The study found no evidence of a novel disease or environmental toxin as a shared cause of symptoms, challenging earlier speculation.
  • Researchers highlighted diagnostic errors, including overreliance on tests like EEGs, and noted that many patients refused second opinions.
  • The New Brunswick government, with federal support, is analyzing 222 reported cases, with a public report expected by summer 2025.
  • Misinformation and reduced trust in public health institutions are cited as contributing to patient fears and resistance to alternative diagnoses.