1017 Predictors of Post-COVID Clinical and Cognitive Consequences: Pilot Study

Abstract Introduction “Post-acute sequelae of SARS-COV-2 infection (PASC)” is a condition with a wide range of physical and mental health consequences that are present four or more weeks after SARS-COV-2 infection. Fatigue is one of the common post-COVID conditions, but whether sleep disturbances due to COVID-19 infection influence the chronic physical and mental health consequences are unknown. The aim of this pilot study is to assess if PASC is associated with sleep disturbances and cognitive deficits. Methods We prospectively collected sleep quality, neurocognitive and quality of life (QoL) data in patients with PASC and OSA and control participants with OSA alone. Questionnaires and a battery of neurocognitive tests were also administered after 3 months in patients with PASC. COVID-infection related data was also collected. Results We have enrolled 135 total participants thus far; 76 patients with PASC (63 males, 13 females; age: 62.0±12.6 years, BMI: 31.07±4.93 kg/m2, AHI: 40.46±27.71 events/hr, Education: 14.5±2.18 years) and 57 controls (48 males, 9 females; age: 65.1±12.0 years, BMI: 31.8±8.5 kg/m2, AHI: 41.4±27.5 events/hr, Education: 14.4±2.6 years). At baseline, compared with controls, PASC group had reduced sleep quality (PSQI: 7.3±3.8 vs 6.2±3.3, p=0.04), and increased fatigue (FSS:38.4±13.9 vs. 33.17±14.8, p=0.05). Reaction times on PVT were increased but similar 366±310. vs 343±248 ms. Trails A and B standard scores were higher but in the normal range for both PASC and control groups: 104.73±14.69 vs 93.18±16.41, p< 0.001. Other cognitive tests were similar between the groups. There were no significant differences in the measured parameters at 3 months vs baseline in PASC individuals. Conclusion Compared with OSA controls, PASC+OSA group had reduced sleep quality and greater fatigue. PVT showed impairment in sustained attention in both groups. Support (if any) Funded by VHA RR&D # RX004396