Quantifying the neuropsychiatric symptoms in post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC) using the NIH Toolbox<sup> <b>®</b> </sup> and PROMIS
Meghann C. Ryan, Huajun Liang, Eleanor Wilson, Andrea R. Levine, Shyamasundaran Kottilil, Thomas Ernst, Linda Chang
Abstract
Abstract Objective To quantify neuropsychiatric symptoms reported by individuals with Post-Acute Sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC) using the NIH Toolbox for Assessment of Neurological and Behavioral Function (NIHTB) and Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS). Methods 30 PASC (20 women, 21–63 years) and 27 control (16 women, 25–68 years) participants completed three NIHTB batteries and selected PROMIS tests. Group differences on fully corrected T-scores were evaluated using analysis of covariance and Cohen’s d effect sizes. A linear regression model predicted the effects from time since diagnosis. Results PASC had poorer emotional health and motor function than controls, including poorer locomotion, endurance and dexterity, but normal cognitive function, ∼7 months post-infection. PASC participants had a steeper age-related decline on the 2-Minute Walk Endurance Test than controls. T-scores on four cognitive and three motor tests improved with longer time since diagnosis. Conclusion NIHTB and PROMIS captured the poorer emotional health and motor function in PASC, including the novel findings of deficits in locomotion and dexterity. The normal cognitive performance suggests subclinical effects that may be compensated by neural and cognitive reserves, and manifested subjectively by the negative psychological effects and fatigue. The persistent emotional and psychiatric symptoms necessitate mental health treatment be prioritized.