Characterizing perceived dysexecutive behavioral changes following SARS-CoV-2 infection in individuals with different clinical trajectories

Neuropsychological alterations, particularly executive dysfunction, are frequently reported after SARS-CoV-2 infection. While cognitive aspects have been widely studied, a multidimensional assessment integrating a behavioral perspective is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of diverse post-SARS-CoV-2 infection trajectories. This study examined perceived dysexecutive behavioral changes after SARS-CoV-2 infection, comparing different post-infection trajectories. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 69 participants: 45 with a history of acute COVID-19 (AC) and 24 with post-COVID-19 syndrome (PCS). The Frontal Systems Behavior Scale (FrSBe) was used to assess perceived dysexecutive behavioral changes. The mean z -scores for the FrSBe behavioral dimensions (apathy, executive dysfunction, and disinhibition) increased in both groups in the post-infection period. The PCS group showed significant increases in all dysexecutive symptoms, with clinical difficulties in apathy and disinhibition dimensions. The AC group exhibited slight perceived behavioral changes in executive dysfunction, and more marked changes in disinhibition. SARS-CoV-2 infection may be associated with perceived changes in dysexecutive behavior, with distinct patterns of self-reported alterations across individuals with different post-infection trajectories. The FrSBe may be a useful tool for identifying behavioral alterations in the different clinical spectrum of the disease. These exploratory findings should be interpreted with caution and justify further research using a more robust methodological approach.