Steroid administration for post-COVID-19 Parkinsonism: A case report

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Infectious Diseases
• Immunology

Background:

• COVID-19 has been associated with various neurological complications.
• Parkinsonism is a complex neurological disorder characterized by motor symptoms.

Observation:

• A 45-year-old male presented with parkinsonism three weeks post-mild COVID-19 diagnosis.
• Initial treatment with levodopa and benserazide was ineffective.

Findings:

• The patient required ropinirole and subsequent corticosteroid therapy.
• A treatment regimen including methylprednisolone and oral prednisolone led to significant symptom improvement within one month.

Implications:

• This case suggests a potential neuroinflammatory mechanism linking COVID-19 to parkinsonism.
• Corticosteroid therapy may be a viable treatment option for post-COVID-19 parkinsonism.
• Further research is warranted to explore the pathophysiology and long-term outcomes of COVID-19-associated neurological disorders.