Neurocognitive and psychological symptoms in post COVID-19 patients (PASC24): prospective cohort study protocol

Knowledge about the late effects of COVID-19, or so-called post-acute sequelae of COVID (PASC), and its pathogenesis is still very limited. The purpose of this observational study is to chart late neurocognitive effects of the COVID-19 infection. The aim is to increase knowledge of the underlying biological processes and describe how biomarkers correlate with degree of symptoms, mapping their role as diagnostic markers over time (24 months).

This prospective observational cohort study is longitudinal and monitors patients with neurocognitive and psychological symptoms after COVID-19 infection in order to analyse the impact on the brain. For these purposes, we introduce a digital neuropsychological platform (Mindmore). We also aim to analyse potential diagnostic and prognostic markers from blood and cerebrospinal fluid and use MRI of the brain. We will measure the patients' return to work and studies as well as any impact on their ADL functions and quality of life. The ongoing study aims to follow-up to 100 study participants with PASC for 24 months at three visits: baseline, 12 months and 24 months. The findings of the study can be used as guidance for future policy management in healthcare and may lead to a possible curative or symptom-relieving treatment.

This study was approved by the Swedish Ethical Review Authority (diary number: 2020-0604 (main application), 2021-03205, 2023-00023-02, 2024-00426-02 (amendments)). Participants will be required to provide informed consent. The results of this study will be reported in peer-reviewed journals and presented at scientific conferences.

NCT06298006.