COVID-19 aftermath: study reveals long-term cognitive deficits and 'brain ageing'

A control group of 2,927 individuals and 351 patients hospitalised due to COVID-19 participated in the study. Participants were examined, on average, 384 days after their hospital admission, with serum biomarkers and neuroimaging used during the examination.

The study found that COVID-19 is associated with both subjective and objectively measurable cognitive deficits, including accuracy and reaction speed. The most severely affected patients were those who had suffered encephalopathy and cerebrovascular complications. Some patients demonstrated deficits equivalent to twenty years of brain aging.

Factors influencing cognitive deficits

Analysis showed that greater cognitive deficits correlated with the patient's age, the severity of the COVID-19 course according to the WHO scale, the presence of neurological and psychiatric complications, and the number of comorbidities.

Interestingly, the study also suggested that a higher level of education and treatment with dexamethasone during the acute phase of the disease may have protective effects on cognitive functions.

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Structural changes in the brain

The results of studies also confirmed a link between "frayed" cognitive functions and structural changes in the brain, observed using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Patients with cognitive deficits were found to have a decreased volume in certain brain regions, emphasising the lasting impact of COVID-19 on the brain.

Conclusions from the study

Studies of potential future therapeutic interventions showed that the administration of corticosteroids in the acute phase of a SARS-CoV-2 infection provides a protective effect against cognitive function loss. "This is a promising direction for the future, since COVID-19 is still prevalent," suggests the report.

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The scientists also emphasise that people who are struggling with cognitive consequences require long-term care, support, and further research.