Particle.news
Download on the App Store
3 ARTICLES
·
yesterday

Study Rules Out Mystery Brain Disease in New Brunswick, Citing Misdiagnoses

A peer-reviewed JAMA study finds no evidence of a novel illness, attributing cases to known conditions, while provincial investigations continue.

Image
Image
Premier Susan Holt and Health Minister John Dornan both say their investigation into what is causing atypical neurological symptoms will continue despite the recent release of a study debunking the existence of a 'mystery disease.'
Image

Overview

  • A May 2025 JAMA study reassessed 25 suspected cases and concluded they were misdiagnosed with known conditions such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and cancer.
  • The study also examined 11 autopsies, finding no evidence of a new disease and a probability of less than 0.001 for its existence.
  • Neurologist Alier Marrero, who initially identified the cases, disputes the study's methods and findings, citing lack of consultation and a small sample size.
  • New Brunswick’s chief medical officer, Dr. Yves Léger, confirmed the province’s independent investigation into 222 cases is ongoing, with a report expected by summer 2025.
  • Patient advocacy groups and some families remain skeptical, attributing symptoms to potential environmental contamination, a theory rejected by researchers.