SARS-CoV-2 can affect the brain and cause neuropsychological disorders

SARS-CoV-2 resulting in COVID-19 can affect the brain and cause neuropsychological disorders (e.g., executive dysfunction and memory difficulties). Recently the presence of more focal and isolated neuropsychological signs has been also reported, in the domain of language disorders (e.g., alexia without agraphia, conduction aphasia). We reported on patient LM affected by a left occipito-temporal ischemic stroke after SARS-CoV-2. LM had a largely preserved overall cognitive profile, but he presented with severe alexia without agraphia (pure alexia). We suggest that focal and isolated neuropsychological dysfunction can be observed in patients with stroke after SARS-CoV-2. Neuropsychological assessment and rehabilitation should be promptly provided to these patients.

Article link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10072-021-05211-4