摘要
Background:Background:The unprecedented virus(COVID-19)has claimed the lives of humans worldwide since the onset of the current pandemic.The virus which commonly starts as mild symptoms most often progresses to severe cases.Healthcare workers have reported that some patients present with atypical symptoms such as cerebrovascular accidents,taste disorders and nerve disorders.Hence,patients with neurological involvement following the infection may be easily misdiagnosed and mismanaged.In order to assess the occurrence,development and prognosis of this novel infection for a better understanding and management,a systematic review of the published cases was done which gives an insight into the possibility that some infected patients may not manifest with the primary symptoms of the respiratory system.Methods:A systematic review of literature searches were conducted in three databases:PubMed,EMBASE and google scholar between December 01,2019 to July 16,2020 for published articles related to the neurologic symptoms of COVID-19.The screening of articles was conducted by two reviewers independently.Results:Thirty-five relevant articles comprising of a total of 543 patients which met the inclusion criteria were carefully selected and included in this review.Headache and dizziness were the most commonly reported symptoms followed by impaired conscious level,olfactory disorders(Anosmia and hyposmia)and taste disorders(Ageusia).In severe cases,acute cerebrovascular accidents,cerebral hemorrhage and Guillain Barre Syndrome were also significantly reported.Conclusion:Some of the neurologic manifestations may occur at the onset of SARS-CoV-2 infection or independently of the respiratory symptoms.Hence,the health care providers need to be prepared and unusually alert in the management of patients in order to avoid delayed or misdiagnosis.This will help in reducing the morbidities and mortalities associated with the infection.
