Cognitive impairment in long-COVID.

Abstract

<p>Long Covid is a complex con&shy;dition characterised by symptoms that per&shy;sist for weeks and months after the Co&shy;vid infection, accompanied by cognitive im&shy;pairment that negatively affects daily life. Understanding this complex condition is im&shy;portant for the development of diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.</p> <p>This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of cognitive impairment in long-COVID, including its definition, symptoms, pathophysiology, risk factors, assessment tools, imaging abnormalities, potential biomarkers, management strategies, long-term outcomes, and future directions for research.<br><br><br><br><br></p>. <p>The search methodology used in this review aimed to include a wide range of research on cognitive impairment related to both COVID-19 and long-COVID. Systematic searches of PubMed and Google Scholar databases were conducted using a mixture of MeSH terms and keywords including &lsquo;cognition&rsquo;, &lsquo;cognitive impairment&rsquo;, &lsquo;brain fog&rsquo;, &lsquo;COVID-19&rsquo; and &lsquo;long-COVID&rsquo;. The search was restricted to studies published in English between 1 January 2019 and 11 February 2024, which presented findings on neurological manifestations in human participants.</p>. <p>Long-COVID is characterized by persistent symptoms following COVID-19 infection, with cognitive impairment being a prominent feature. Symptoms include brain fog, difficulties with concentration, memory issues, and executive function deficits. Pa&shy;tho&shy;physiological mechanisms involve vi&shy;ral persistence, immune responses, and vas&shy;cular damage. Risk factors include age, pre-existing conditions, and disease seve&shy;rity. Cognitive assessment tools such as the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) are essential for diagnosis. Imaging studies, including MRI, PET, and SPECT, reveal structural and functional brain alterations. Potential biomarkers include C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, and neuron-specific enolase. Management strategies encompass cognitive rehabilitation, occupational therapy, medications, and lifestyle modifications.</p>. <p>Long-COVID poses a multifaceted challenge, and cognitive impairment significantly impacts patients&rsquo; lives. A multi&shy;disciplinary approach, including cognitive rehabilitation and medication when appropriate, is essential for effective management. Future research should focus on validating biomarkers and understanding long-term cognitive outcomes.</p> <p>Conclusion &ndash; Long-COVID is a global health concern, and cognitive impairment is a distressing symptom. While pharmacological interventions have potential, they require careful consideration. Continued research is crucial for improving the understanding and treatment of cognitive impairment in long-COVID.</p>.