The Neurological Aspects of COVID-19: Do Women Respond Differently?

Abstract

Neurovirulence of Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) was established soon after the Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic broke. While the initial reports from Chinese cohorts suggested that around 8 to 36% patients of COVID-19 develop neurological complications, upcoming literature revealed the various neurological presentations this newly emergent virus could have. Data on neurological manifestations of COVID-19 is still accumulating. Despite an immense flooding of recent databases, gender-specific issues of this novel virus still remain elusive. Increased mortality has been noted in elderly male patients, and immediate risk of death is a major concern. As per the available literature, women are more likely to recover from the virus, but little is described about the medical and social repercussions. Gender-based analysis should help delineate specific problems in women in the rapidly changing scenario. This article discusses the relevant neurological aspects of COVID-19 with specific reference to women.