Meningoencephalitis from SARS-CoV-2 infection. (2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Hafizi, Fatima; Kherani, Saleema; Shams, Madeeha
• Is Part Of: IDCases. Volume 21(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020
• Subjects: COVID-19 -- SARS-CoV-2 -- Coronavirus -- Meningoencephalitis -- Nervous system -- CSF; Communicable diseases -- Periodicals; Communicable Diseases -- Case Reports; Communicable Diseases -- Periodicals; Communicable diseases; Periodicals; 616.9
• DOI: 10.1016/j.idcr.2020.e00919
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2214-2509

Abstract

Highlights: SARS-CoV-2 meningoencephalitis should be considered in patients presenting with neurologic symptoms during this pandemic. Patients with high suspicion for SARS-CoV-2 neurologic involvement should receive brain imaging and lumbar puncture. A verified assay for detecting SARS-CoV-2 virus RNA in cerebrospinal fluid needs development for acute care center use. Abstract: The current global pandemic of COVID-19 disease is caused by a novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. This typically causes severe respiratory illness, however, as cases have multiplied across the globe, protean manifestations involving multiple organ systems have been described. We report a case of a 35-year-old woman with meningoencephalitis associated with COVID-19 disease who presented with altered mental status and rhythmic limb movements. Although rare, meningoencephalitis should be considered as a possible manifestation of COVID-19 disease.