COVID-19 associated nervous system manifestations

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Infectious Diseases
• Neuroscience

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has led to widespread respiratory illness.
• Neurological manifestations are increasingly reported in patients with COVID-19.
• SARS-CoV-2 is recognized as an opportunistic pathogen affecting the brain.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the neurological manifestations associated with COVID-19.
• To summarize how SARS-CoV-2 invades the central nervous system.
• To highlight the range of neurological symptoms observed in COVID-19 patients.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of reported neurological manifestations in COVID-19 patients.
• Analysis of proposed mechanisms for SARS-CoV-2 entry into the brain.
• Compilation of clinical features associated with COVID-19 neurological complications.

Main Results:

• SARS-CoV-2 can enter the brain via olfactory bulb, peripheral nerves, or hematogenous/lymphatic routes.
• Neurological symptoms include encephalopathy, seizures, ataxia, headache, anosmia, ageusia, and neuropathies.
• COVID-19 can present with or trigger neurodegenerative conditions.

Conclusions:

• SARS-CoV-2 poses a significant threat to the central nervous system.
• Understanding these neurological impacts is crucial for managing COVID-19 patients.
• Further research is needed to fully elucidate the neuroinvasive potential of SARS-CoV-2.