Potential Pathomechanism of Neuro-COVID-19

Abstract

Gathered data about SARS-CoV-2 have shown strong evidence in terms of neuroinvasive and neurotropic capacities of the virus to reach and cause eventual damage to the Central Nervous System. The spread of the virus may occur through direct and indirect ways, leading to anosmia and/or ageusia. These signs have been observed in many COVID-19 patients and are then included in the diagnostic criteria for Neuro-COVID-19. The invasion of SARS-CoV-2 into the dorsal vagal complex of the brainstem has a harmful impact on the respiratory rhythm, with even respiratory failure. There is evidence that immune response abnormalities including cytokine storm and neuro-inflammation influence not only the disease severity, but also the occurrence of neurological and neurodegenerative manifestations. Many umbrella zones remain unclear about Neuro-COVID-19, which requires more consideration in its clinical, biological and therapeutic aspects and may open new research perspectives.