Long COVID cognitive sequelae 6 months postinfection and beyond: a scoping review protocol

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Public Health
• Medical Research Methodology

Background:

• Long COVID presents diverse research approaches.
• Understanding prolonged cognitive sequelae requires precise methods.
• Current research needs nuanced identification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a scoping review of long COVID research.
• To identify methodological nuances in current studies.
• To understand cognitive sequelae and disease severity links.

Main Methods:

• Scoping review following PRISMA-ScR standards.
• Systematic search of PubMed and EMBASE databases.
• Data extraction and synthesis via descriptive analyses and narrative synthesis.

Main Results:

• Initial search yielded 1409 eligible results; 925 articles screened.
• Data on study design, demographics, cognitive outcomes, and tests extracted.
• Evidence gap maps and heat maps will quantify findings.

Conclusions:

• This review protocol outlines a structured approach to understanding long COVID research.
• Findings will guide targeted rehabilitation and healthcare interventions.
• The study aims to aid patients, clinicians, policymakers, and researchers.