Understanding the Neurologic Manifestations of COVID-19

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), a novel coronavirus that causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), has impacted many people worldwide. SARS-CoV-2 primarily affects the respiratory system and has the potential to result in serious illness and death. However, it is now recognized that COVID-19 infection can manifest beyond the respiratory tract. In fact, the neurologic, cardiovascular, renal, hematologic, dermatologic, and gastrointestinal systems may be affected. Neurologic sequelae are wide-ranging and may include loss of taste, loss of smell, acute cerebrovascular disease, seizures, encephalopathy, encephalitis, and Guillain-Barre syndrome. In order to adequately care for patients, it is important for pharmacists to have a good understanding of these neurologic complications.