A recent multicenter study has found that patients hospitalized with COVID-19 experience objective global cognitive impairment after 12-18 months of follow-up, particularly those who developed encephalopathy. The study, which analyzed serum brain injury biomarkers and MRI scans, discovered a significant association between cognitive impairment and reduced regional brain volume. Elevated brain injury biomarkers were also found in patients with COVID-19-related cognitive deficits.
The research, led by Dr. Wood et al., aimed to investigate the long-term effects of COVID-19 on cognitive function and brain health. The study’s findings suggest that COVID-19 can lead to persistent global cognitive impairment, even after hospitalization. This is particularly concerning for patients who developed encephalopathy during their illness.
The study’s results also highlight the importance of monitoring brain injury biomarkers in patients with COVID-19-related cognitive deficits. Elevated levels of these biomarkers were found in patients with reduced regional brain volume and cognitive impairment.
These findings have significant implications for the management and treatment of COVID-19 patients, particularly those with neurological complications. Further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind COVID-19-related cognitive impairment and develop effective treatments to mitigate its effects.
Source: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-024-03379-8