Medizinische Universität Graz - Research portal
Selected Publication:
Leitner, M.
Long-COVID: Clinical Characteristics, Neural Correlates, and Intervention Approaches
Doktoratsstudium der Medizinischen Wissenschaft; Humanmedizin; [ Dissertation ] Medizinische Universität Graz; 2025. pp.
- Authors Med Uni Graz:
- Advisor:
- Koini Marisa
- Pinter Daniela Theresia
- Altmetrics:
- Abstract:
- Introduction: Long-COVID is a highly heterogeneous condition that encompasses more than 200 symptoms and poses a significant burden on public health systems worldwide. Even five years after the pandemic, knowledge about its personal impact, effective treatment options, and brain alterations in affected individuals remains limited. Methods: Therefore, this thesis comprises three studies that aimed to (1) characterize the symptoms, burdens, and impacts of Long-COVID, (2) investigate structural and functional brain changes associated with cognitive impairment - one of the most frequently reported symptoms - and (3) explore the effectiveness of a tablet-based training program as a potential intervention for cognitive and psychological deficits. Results: The findings of this thesis underscore (1) the substantial impact of Long-COVID on patients’ personal and professional lives, including a broad range of symptoms, high levels of psychological distress, and work-related consequences such as loss of income or inability to work. In addition, (2) significant functional brain alterations were observed between patients with and without cognitive impairment following COVID-19, especially in large-scale brain networks such as the default mode network (DMN), which plays an important role in various mental processes. Finally, (3) the findings of this thesis provide partial support for the use of tablet-based training programs to alleviate subjective cognitive complaints, reduce depressive symptoms, and support memory performance in affected individuals. Conclusion: These findings highlight the diverse clinical presentation of Long-COVID and its significant impact on those affected. Moreover, they underscore the need for a deeper understanding of the neuronal mechanisms underlying its cognitive and psychological symptoms. Future research should aim to identify reliable biomarkers and develop tailored, multimodal interventions to improve the quality of life for those affected.