Neurological complications in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection: a systematic review

Abstract

Background: As the COVID-19 pandemic unfolds worldwide, different forms of reports have described its neurologic manifestations.

Objective: To review the literature on neurological complications of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Methods: Literature search performed following systematic reviews guidelines, using specific keywords based on the COVID-19 neurological complications described up to May 10th, 2020.

Results: A total of 43 articles were selected, including data ranging from common, non-specific symptoms, such as hyposmia and myalgia, to more complex and life-threatening conditions, such as cerebrovascular diseases, encephalopathies, and Guillain-Barré syndrome.

Conclusion: Recognition of neurological manifestations of SARS-CoV-2 should be emphasized despite the obvious challenges faced by clinicians caring for critical patients who are often sedated and presenting other concurrent systemic complications.