Immune-mediated Pathogenic Mechanisms of Neuro-PASC in Veterans
Mental health symptoms, including cognitive impairment (brain fog), following COVID-19 are of great concern to Veterans. The investigators' research seeks to advance understanding of the long-term effects of COVID-19 on neuropsychiatric and neurological functions, identifying clinically relevant biomarkers and directions for developing and testing therapeutic interventions. To accomplish these objectives the investigators are conducting a longitudinal study at two VA medical centers to: 1) assess and monitor cognitive function and psychiatric symptoms in Veterans post-COVID; 2) evaluate biomarkers of inflammation and signaling pathways associated with viral infection and neuropsychiatric function; and 3) integrate neuropsychiatric and neurological findings with biological data to identify biomarkers and clinical endpoints associated with disease progression or severity, as well as those for promoting brain repair and attenuating those symptoms.
⁃ Eligible participants will:
• have a history of SARS-CoV-2 infection 4 weeks prior to enrollment, defined as a positive PCR or home antigen test
• be able to give informed consent as determined by brief cognitive exam and evaluation of understanding of the risks, benefits, and voluntary nature of the study
⁃ Additionally, participants enrolled as part of the neuro-PASC group must also:
• currently experience neuro-PASC symptoms, not present prior to infection, as confirmed by the Long COVID-19 Symptom Assessment scale, a self-report measure that consists of 46 common COVID-19 sequela symptoms