Brain scans reveal lasting tissue and chemical changes in both long COVID and recovered patients

A recent study published in the journal Brain, Behavior, & Immunity – Health has found lasting changes in brain tissue and chemical levels in both long COVID patients and those who have recovered from the virus. The research, conducted by neuroimaging experts at Griffith University in Australia, utilized advanced brain scanning techniques to analyze the structural and chemical changes in the brains of 47 adult participants.

These included 19 individuals with long COVID, 12 who had fully recovered from COVID-19, and 16 healthy control subjects who had never been infected. The study aimed to determine whether distinct physical differences exist among these groups. The researchers employed structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans to measure myelin levels, tissue microstructure, and neurochemical balances.

Myelin, which insulates nerve fibers and facilitates efficient communication within the brain, was found to have altered signal intensities in both long COVID patients and recovered individuals. Additionally, diffusion tensor imaging revealed changes in water molecule diffusion patterns, suggesting structural damage to brain tissue.

The analysis of brain neurochemicals also indicated potential alterations in chemical balances. These findings suggest that even after recovery from COVID-19, the brain may retain lasting physical and chemical changes, contributing to persistent neurological symptoms such as brain fog, fatigue, and memory issues. The study underscores the importance of further research into the biological underpinnings of these brain-based symptoms of long COVID.

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