Pain, the brain, and SARS-CoV-2: evidence for pain-specific alterations in brain-related structure–function properties

Abstract

According to best current estimates, approximately 10% of those infected with SARS-CoV-2-virus experience long-term clinical and nonspecific neurological symptoms that may last for several weeks or months. This is currently referred to as “Long-COVID” or “Post-COVID-Syndrome”. Based on current knowledge, the most common long-term symptoms of COVID-19 disease include fatigue and poor concentration, but particularly also headache and musculoskeletal pain. However, given the novelty of COVID-19, only a few studies have systematically evaluated the central nervous alterations in the pain processing structures of our brain. Those first insights are yet important in order to offer patients adequate therapeutic options. Based on a systematic review of the literature, we will therefore provide an overview of the central nervous alterations in the brain described in the context of SARS-CoV-2 infection, focusing on findings with brain imaging.