Chinese Expert: "COVID-19 Virus Can Damage the Central Nervous System"

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Jae-hee] A study has revealed that the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) may damage the central nervous system of patients.

According to Chinese media Caixin on the 5th, Liu Jingyuan, chief physician at Beijing Ditan Hospital affiliated with Capital Medical University, detected the COVID-19 virus in the cerebrospinal fluid of a 56-year-old patient. Caixin reported that this shows COVID-19 can invade the central nervous system, similar to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) or Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS).

This is the first evidence suggesting that COVID-19 can cause damage to the central nervous system.

Chief physician Liu Jingyuan stated that if a patient suddenly develops consciousness impairment, it is necessary to promptly conduct cerebrospinal fluid-related tests with the possibility that the COVID-19 virus has attacked the central nervous system in mind. He emphasized that actively addressing neurological complications can further reduce the mortality rate.

Beijing Ditan Hospital conducted genetic sequencing analysis of the cerebrospinal fluid after the 56-year-old COVID-19 patient exhibited neurological abnormalities such as facial spasms and persistent belching. Through this, they confirmed the presence of the COVID-19 virus in the cerebrospinal fluid and diagnosed viral encephalitis.

The patient was fully recovered and discharged on the 25th.

The 7th edition of the COVID-19 treatment guidelines announced by the National Health Commission of China the day before also included autopsy results of patients who died from COVID-19, stating that COVID-19 can damage various parts of the body, including brain tissue.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.