INTRODUCTION: Following the global emergence of SARS-CoV-2, it has become evident that COVID-19 can produce persistent, multisystemic symptoms known as "long COVID." Neurocognitive and neuropsychiatric symptoms are reported in approximately 40% of patients, often resulting in significant difficulties with daily functioning, workplace challenges, increased healthcare consumption, and a substantial economic burden. This condition is further linked to serious neurological complications, such as encephalitis, stroke, seizures, and Guillain-Barré syndrome.
METHODS: This study comprised a comprehensive literature review to identify and understand existing research on the long-term neurological impacts of COVID-19. The process involved evaluating investigations into multisystemic symptoms and reviewing documented clinical cases of neurological complications by searching relevant databases for studies published between January 2020 and December 2024.
RESULTS: The work identified that while the neurological burden of long COVID-19 is high, there are currently very few treatments described in the literature. Furthermore, the treatments that do exist are often inadequately defined, leaving a gap in standardized clinical protocols for managing neurocognitive decline post-infection.
DISCUSSION: The persistence of these symptoms suggests a need for a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms of post-viral neurological damage. The discussion centres on the intersection of cognitive impairment and economic impact, emphasizing that the lack of defined therapeutic pathways hinders recovery and increases the long-term societal burden of the pandemic.
CONCLUSION: This review summarizes current evidence on the neurological and neuropsychiatric sequelae of long COVID-19. It highlights the urgent need for emerging therapeutic approaches and structured management strategies to alleviate cognitive and neuropsychiatric impairments in this patient population effectively.
