AI is now changing the way scientists diagnose parasites

SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) — Scientists are learning more about how AI can be used to help diagnose human parasites.

In March 2025, ARUP expanded its AI screening algorithm, becoming the first laboratory in the world to apply AI to the entire parasite testing process.

“Our validation studies have demonstrated the AI algorithm has better clinical sensitivity, improving the likelihood that a pathogenic parasite may be detected,” Blaine Mathison, the technical director of parasitology at ARUP, said.

The study was carried out alongside Utah tech firm, Techcyte, which trained the AI by using over 4,000 parasite samples.

Researchers say that until now the process of detecting parasites in humans has relied largely on microscopy, which is labor-intensive. AI is expected to reduce the burden on laboratory staff while improving diagnoses and clinical sensitivity.

In a research paper, authored by Mathison, findings indicate that AI detected an additional 169 organisms that were not identified by a test technologist.

“It has been a groundbreaking effort, and what we’ve accomplished is remarkable,” Mathison said.

Dr. Adam Barker, the chief operations officer with ARUP, says researchers can now identify more organisms than before by using AI. “An AI algorithm is only as good as the personnel inputting the data.”

ARUP says it will continue to develop “innovative technologies, including AI solutions, to improve diagnostic capabilities and laboratory processes.”