Long-term cognitive effects of COVID-19 studied with repeated neuropsychological testing

BMJ Case Rep. 2024 Apr 17;17(4):e256711. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2023-256711.

Abstract

COVID-19 has a wide range of clinical manifestations. Apart from respiratory symptoms, neurological manifestations and cognitive impairment are commonly seen. Due to lack of a clear consensus on the definition of long COVID a pragmatic approach of assessing change from neurological baseline has become prevalent. We present the case of a high functioning woman in her late 40s who had a mild course of acute illness but developed cognitive difficulties. No organic causes for her cognitive difficulties were found. Neuropsychological testing showed impairment in right frontal lobe functioning. The patient showed a response to empirical treatment with Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medications. Repeat neuropsychological testing 1 year later showed continued dysfunction in executive functioning. We present the details of her test findings and discuss the proposed pathophysiology behind neurocognitive effects of long COVID.

Keywords: COVID-19; memory disorders; memory disorders (psychiatry).

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity* / psychology
  • COVID-19* / complications
  • Cognition / physiology
  • Executive Function / physiology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Neuropsychological Tests
  • Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome