This study is a prospective observational cohort study to document the prevalence and types of neurological manifestations among hospitalized patients with confirmed or suspected novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19).
This study is a prospective observational cohort study to document the prevalence and types
of neurological manifestations among hospitalized patients with confirmed or suspected novel
coronavirus infection (COVID-19). Severe acute respiratory syndrome 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the virus
that causes COVID-19, shares significant structural and biological similarities with
SARS-CoV, which is known to be neuroinvasive particularly with brainstem involvement. There
are emerging reports of neurological symptoms associated with COVID-19 infections, including
seizures, coma, encephalitis, Guillan-Barre syndrome, and cerebrovascular events including
ischemic stroke, ICH, and cerebral venous sinus thromboses. However, the exact prevalence of
these conditions and their impact on patient disease severity and outcomes is unknown. As the
incidence and severity of COVID-19 infection continue to rapidly rise globally, it is
imperative to capture prospective data to accurately document prevalence, severity and
clinical characterization of neurological components of COVID 19, the influence of treatment
regimens of neurological complications, and role of these confounders on patient and
organizational outcomes.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Patients greater than or equal to 18 years old
- Admitted with suspected or confirmed COVID19 infection
- Patient exhibiting acute neurological symptoms
Exclusion Criteria:
- Patients under the age of 18 years old
- Pre-existing, baseline severe neurologic dysfunction including baseline
coma/vegetative state, baseline quadriparesis, baseline refractory seizure disorder
with frequent breakthrough seizures despite anticonvulsant use
University of Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
Sherry H Chou, MD, MSc, Principal Investigator
University of Pittsburgh