Long-Term Neurological Impact of COVID-19
A Systematic Review of Brain-Related Disorders
Keywords:
COVID-19, Neurological, Cognitive, Neuropathy, Alzheimer’sAbstract
Background: COVID-19 has been associated with various neurological manifestations, ranging from mild symptoms like headaches to severe conditions such as strokes and encephalopathy. This systematic review aims to summarize the long-term neurological sequelae of COVID-19, focusing on cognitive decline, neurodegeneration, and mental health disorders.
Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic review of studies published between December 2019 and September 2024. Databases searched included PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science. Studies were eligible if they assessed neurological outcomes in post-acute COVID-19 patients beyond six months of infection. A total of 1,527 studies were screened, and 56 were included in the final review.
Results: The review identified five major categories of long-term neurological effects:
- Cognitive impairment (brain fog, memory loss)
- Mental health disorders (depression, anxiety, PTSD)
- Neurological diseases (Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s)
- Strokes and cerebrovascular events
- Peripheral neuropathies
Conclusion: Evidence suggests significant long-term neurological impacts of COVID-19, especially cognitive impairments and the potential for neurodegenerative diseases. Further longitudinal studies are necessary to understand these effects fully.
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