Subtle Brain Structure Alternations in Young Adult Patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 Omicron and Mild Symptom: A Case Control Study Using MRI

Motivation: The existence of brain structural abnormalities in young adults with mild Omicron infections remains unclear. Goal(s): This study aimed to investigate short-term brain structure changes in this specific patient group. Approach: Young adult patients and age- and sex-matched controls were enrolled, and brain structures were assessed on T1-MPRAGE images. One-way ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis tests, and logistic regression were employed to determine differences among groups. Results: While whole brain volume didn't significantly differ among groups, subtle alterations in various regions within cerebral cortex, white matter, and cerebrospinal fluid were observed during the acute phase, with a tendency of recovery over time. Impact: Short-term structural changes in brain were observed in this study. The findings suggest cerebral impairments at the early stage of infection with SARS-CoV-2 Omicron even in individuals with mild symptoms.