COVID-19 and neurocognitive disorders

Purpose of review The COVID-19 infection results in various viral-related physical and mental health problems, joined with the long-term psychological impact of the pandemic in general. However, the accompanying neurocognitive changes remain poorly understood. Recent findings We synthetize the current knowledge of viral (SARS-CoV-2) induced inflammation, mechanisms to viral entry into the central nervous system and altered neurotransmitter systems to provide an informed neurobiological explanation for the rise of neurocognitive disorders (defined as per the DSM-5 criteria). The mild and major neurocognitive disorder symptoms due to the COVID-19 pandemic provide a unique opportunity to address the early changes underlying neurocognitive impairment at both clinical and molecular level. We discuss the utilization of the available evidence for their management and future novel therapeutic opportunities.

Automated summary

The review discusses the neurobiological explanation for neurocognitive disorders caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on viral-induced inflammation, mechanisms of viral entry into the central nervous system, and altered neurotransmitter systems. The symptoms of mild and major neurocognitive disorders present an opportunity to study early changes underlying neurocognitive impairment at both clinical and molecular levels, and to explore management strategies and future therapeutic opportunities.