NeuroCOVID: the cure of the Istituto di Neuroscienze
Learn more about the effects of the Sars-Cov-2 pandemic and which are the most common neurological and psychiatric manifestations through an interview of Dr. Pallanti.
The impact of COVID-19 on the Nervous System
Dr. Stefano Pallanti's warning
On May 7, 2020, Dr. Stefano Pallanti took part in an interview where he explored the latest and most significant scientific evidence concerning a crucial aspect related to COVID-19: the acute neuropsychiatric manifestations affecting a wide range of individuals infected with the virus. This evidence stems from research conducted by Dr. Pallanti together with a group of other world-renowned neuroscientists.
Throughout the interview, Dr. Pallanti meticulously analyzed the widespread effects of the Sars-CoV-2 pandemic and thoroughly examined the most common neurological and psychiatric manifestations. He also delved into the underlying mechanisms of these disorders and the potential long-term consequences.
In the final part of the interview, Dr. Pallanti outlined possible guidelines for a prevention and treatment protocol, emphasizing the importance of immediate structural interventions to not underestimate the neurological impact of the Coronavirus while expressing concerns about the future.
The 3 phases of COVID-19 impact on the Nervous System
In support of Dr. Pallanti's warning regarding the long-term neurological effects of COVID-19, a new significant international study emerged in late June 2020 which divides the impact of COVID-19 on the Central Nervous System into three phases. It categorizes the impact of COVID-19 on the Central Nervous System into three phases and recommends that all hospitalized patients with the virus undergo a brain MRI to rule out potential neurological damage and, if necessary, initiate a long-term monitoring process.
According to the study, in the first phase, viral damage seems to be limited to the epithelial cells of the nose and mouth.
Starting from the second phase, the formation of blood clots in the lungs can be observed, which can travel to the brain, increasing the risk of strokes.
In the third phase, the virus crosses the blood-brain barrier, invading the brain. This stage may be characterized by seizures, confusion, delirium, coma, loss of consciousness, or even death.
The collection and analysis of available data have revealed that patients in the third phase are more likely to develop long-term consequences since viral particles can indeed penetrate the brain.
Researchers' main concern is that patients with COVID-19 symptoms such as shortness of breath, headaches, or dizziness may simultaneously have unnoticed or neglected neurological symptoms during hospitalization, only emerging after discharge from the hospital.
Consistent with the warning previously issued by Dr. Pallanti several months in advance, the authors of this important research believe that all hospitalized COVID-19 patients should undergo neurological evaluations and ideally receive a brain MRI before being discharged from the hospital. In case of anomalies, patients should embark on a neurological care and rehabilitation program lasting at least 3-4 months.
For this purpose, the Istituto di Neuroscienze has developed a specific program available at its treatment centers!
