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Abstract #3932

Long COVID’s Lasting Impact on the Brain: Increased Magnetic Susceptibility in Key Subcortical Gray Matter Structures

Jia Ying1, Chuan Huang1, Zennur Sekendiz2, Ashley Fontana 2, Sean A.P. Clouston3, Minos Kritikos3, and Benjamin J. Luft4
1Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States, 2Medicine, Stony Brook Medicine, Stony Brook, NY, United States, 3Family, Population, and Preventive Medicine, Stony Brook Medicine, Stony Brook, NY, United States, 4World Trade Center Health and Wellness Program, Stony Brook Medicine, Stony Brook, NY, United States

Synopsis

Keywords: Infectious Disease, Brain, PASC, COVID-19

Motivation: Persistent neurological symptoms in PASC, such as cognitive dysfunction and fatigue, may be linked to cerebral iron dysregulation and neuroinflammation.

Goal(s): This study aimed to assess lateralized magnetic susceptibility in subcortical regions among PASC patients, recovered individuals, and those who never had COVID.

Approach: Quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) imaging and a general linear model, adjusted for age and gender, were used to measure magnetic susceptibility across groups.

Results: PASC patients showed elevated susceptibility values, indicating iron accumulation in the right hippocampus, right caudate, and right putamen, suggesting localized neuroinflammation associated with these persistent symptoms.

Impact: The study identifies potential biomarkers for neurological impairment in PASC patients, specifically in the right hippocampus, caudate, and putamen. These findings highlight potential biomarkers for PASC-related neurological impairment, supporting targeted rehabilitation strategies.

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