COVID-19 neuropsychiatric repercussions: Current evidence on the subject
Ronaldo Teixeira da Silva Júnior, Jonathan Santos Apolonio, Beatriz Rocha Cuzzuol, Bruna Teixeira da Costa, Camilo Santana Silva, Glauber Rocha Lima Araújo, Marcel Silva Luz, Hanna Santos Marques, Luana Kauany de Sá Santos, Samuel Luca Rocha Pinheiro, Vinícius Lima de Souza Gonçalves, Mariana Santos Calmon, Fabrício Freire de Melo
Abstract
angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors on host cells. Several studies have shown the presence of ACE2 in nerve cells and nasal mucosa, as well as transmembrane serine protease 2, key points for interaction with the viral Spike glycoprotein and entry into the CNS, being olfactory tract and blood-brain barrier, through hematogenous dissemination, potential pathways. Thus, the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in the CNS supports the development of neuropsychiatric symptoms. The management of these manifestations seems more complex, given that the dense parenchyma and impermeability of brain tissue, despite protecting the brain from the infectious process, may hinder virus elimination. Still, some alternatives used in non-COVID-19 situations may lead to worse prognosis of acute respiratory syndrome, requiring caution. Therefore, the aim of this review is to bring more current points related to this infection in the CNS, as well as the repercussions of the isolation involved by the pandemic and to present perspectives on interventions in this scenario.