Does SARS-CoV-2 infection cause chronic neurological complications?

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Virology
• Gerontology

Background:

• The ongoing pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) presents a significant global health challenge.
• Coronaviruses (CoVs), including SARS-CoV-2, exhibit neuroinvasive properties, leading to central nervous system (CNS) inflammation and neurodegeneration.
• Neurological manifestations are increasingly reported in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss the potential long-term consequences of SARS-CoV-2 neuroinfection on the central nervous system (CNS).
• To explore the relationship between SARS-CoV-2 neuroinfection and accelerated brain aging.
• To examine the potential link between SARS-CoV-2 and age-related neurodegenerative disorders.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on SARS-CoV-2 neuroinvasion and neurological manifestations.
• Analysis of the impact of viral infections on the CNS, particularly in older adults.
• Discussion of potential mechanisms linking SARS-CoV-2 to accelerated brain aging and neurodegeneration.

Main Results:

• Older adults (>65 years) are a high-risk group for severe SARS-CoV-2 infection and mortality.
• While most COVID-19 patients may survive the acute infection, the long-term neurological sequelae remain largely unknown.
• SARS-CoV-2 neuroinfection may contribute to chronic CNS changes.

Conclusions:

• The potential for SARS-CoV-2 to cause chronic central nervous system (CNS) changes, including accelerated brain aging and age-related neurodegenerative disorders, warrants significant attention.
• Further research is crucial to understand and mitigate the long-term neurological impacts of SARS-CoV-2, especially in vulnerable elderly populations.
• Investigating the neuroinvasive capabilities of SARS-CoV-2 is critical for comprehensive pandemic response and patient care.