The ‘third wave’: impending cognitive and functional decline in COVID-19 survivors

Abstract

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Long-Lasting Cognitive Abnormalities after COVID-19

“…Indeed, many coronaviruses are capable of altering the structure and function of the nervous system [7,8]. Additionally, they have been shown to cause nervous system alterations not only through direct infection pathways (both neuronal and circulatory), but also through secondary hypoxia, immune-mediated tissue damage, procoagulative and prothrombotic states, and other mechanisms [9,10]. Neurological symptoms observed in patients with COVID-19 typically include headache, dizziness, myalgia, anosmia, and ageusia [2,4,11,12].…”

Hypoxaemia does not necessitate tracheal intubation in COVID-19 patients. Comment on Br J Anaesth 2021; 126: 44-7

“…We read with interest the editorial “The ‘Third Wave’: impending cognitive and functional decline in COVID-19 survivors” by Baker and colleagues. 1 The authors provide a timely and succinct account of cognitive complications experienced by patients recovering from COVID-19 and put forward an interesting scheme of potential mechanisms of brain disturbances.…”

Impending cognitive and functional decline in COVID-19 survivors. Comment on Br J Anaesth 2021; 126: 44–7

“…Editor—Baker and colleagues 1 predict a ‘third wave’ of neurocognitive decline in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) survivors. 1 Although their illustration of the wheel of factors surrounding post-COVID-19 cognitive and functional impairment is compelling, specific contextual literature, additional neurotropic associations, previous experiences with viral illnesses, and future perspective in this area demand further elucidation to complete the picture.…”

“…Alongside a multifaceted ‘post-intensive care syndrome’ aetiology for COVID-19-related neurocognitive decline detailed by Baker and colleagues, 1 there are additional neurotropic associations to consider. 1 , 5 , 6 These range from peripheral demyelinating illnesses, such as Guillain–Barré syndrome described in COVID-19, to abnormal magnetic resonance brain imaging in as high as 44% of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2-infected patients with neurological symptoms. 5 , 6 , 7 The magnitude of disease burden is compounded by factors, such as lack of a control group and the radiological studies being confounded by indication.…”

“…Moreover, drawing upon previous experiences with human immunodeficiency and herpes viruses, the anticipation of Baker and colleagues 1 of a ‘third wave’ of COVID-19-related neurocognitive impairment is pertinent. 5 …”