Neuropsychological consequences of COVID-19: current approach and clinical recommendations

Nearly two years into the pandemic, a large body of data has emerged on how COVID-19-positive patients function with the viral infection. It is now known that the virus targets the central nervous system(CNS). As a result, in addition to the expected common health complaints, patients display cognitive and emotional problems. Cognitive deficits should be expected particularly in patients who have arrived at an intensive care unit as a result of respiratory failure, in patients suffering from comorbid neurodegenerative diseases and respiratory conditions, as well as in the elderly. However, these may also occur in patients with moderate to mild symptoms as well as in those of a younger age. The cognitive impairment has an unknown profile. Given the hypothesised hippocampal vulnerability to the SARS-CoV-2 virus, one might expect particular difficulties with memory, attention, information processing, and executive functions. With varying neuropsychological and emotional problems, convalescents in trying to return to their social, family and professional life require professional psychological assistance. The role of neuropsychologists is here crucial. Indeed, many patients will require a detailed, multifaceted neuropsychological diagnosis that will form the basis for subsequent neuropsychological rehabilitation. An early detection of neuropsychological manifestations could modify the risk of subsequent irreversible impairment and further neurocognitive decline.