Specificity of cognitive dysfunction in the context of post-COVID syndrome in patients with acute cerebrovascular lesions

The article analyzes the specificity of cognitive dysfunction in patients with acute cerebrovascular lesions in the context of post-COVID syndrome and the development of methods for assessing their impact on quality of life. The scientific studies that analyze the dynamics of cognitive functions depending on the severity of COVID-19, methods of ventilation therapy and the age of patients are considered. It has also been found that acute and chronic stress related to COVID-19 can affect the activation of inflammatory processes and worsen the symptoms of depression. The study was carried out using a number of neuropsychological tests, including the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), 10-word test, Schulte tables, paired associates learning test, which allowed for a comprehensive assessment of cognitive disorders and their impact on patients’ quality of life. Individuals with cerebrovascular disease who recovered from COVID-19 were found to have moderate to severe cognitive impairment compared to controls. Attention and executive functions were particularly often impaired, while delayed and recognition memory were less affected. Analysis using the MMSE and MoCA confirmed the higher sensitivity of the MoCA in detecting minor changes in cognitive functioning, which helps in the diagnosis of cognitive impairment in patients with cerebrovascular disease after COVID-19. There was a need for long-term monitoring and timely treatment of cognitive impairment, as most patients continued to exhibit cognitive dysfunction within six months of recovery. The results of the study indicate the need for further research to assess the long-term impact of SARS-CoV-2 on cognitive functions and the development of effective treatment strategies using neuropsychological support and cognitive training.