Urgent need to establish neuropath links in COVID-19 via autopsies, path studies:experts

Expert panel of neurologists discussed challenges faced by patients with a weak nervous system and impact of neurological manifestations in COVID-19

Panellists explained the importance of a healthy brain and central nervous system to minimise chances of neurological disorders, at a recent online webinar organised by The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) as part of the ‘Illness to Wellness’ series themed ‘Wellness of brain and nervous system’.

The online event had an expert panel of neurologists in an informative dialogue on challenges faced by patients suffering from a weak nervous system.

Renowned experts who shared their valuable comments included – Prof (Dr) Rajinder K. Dhamija, Head of Neurology Department, Lady Hardinge Medical College; Dr (Col) P.K. Sethi, Emeritus Consultant and Advisor, Neurology, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital; Dr Sumit Singh, Chief, Neurology, Artemis Hospitals; Anil Rajput, Chairperson, ASSOCHAM CSR Council and Dr Rajesh Kesari, Founder and Director, Total Care Control who also moderated the ASSOCHAM webinar.

The panellists explained the importance of a healthy brain and central nervous system to minimise chances of neurological disorders.

Sharing his views, Dr Dhamija said, “As the pandemic rages, there is an urgent need to establish neuropathological links in COVID-19 via autopsies and pathology studies. Knowledge of virus structure and virus-host interaction mechanisms will aid in providing a framework for therapeutic interventions.”

He added, “Neurological manifestations in COVID-19 are undeniable and represent an amalgamation of a hyperfunctioning immunological system, procoagulant state and direct virus-induced apoptosis, a combination that may require a multi-pronged approach for therapeutic success.”

He also said, “Neurological disorders have become major public health concerns globally including India, with increasing prevalence due to escalating longevity and perpetually changing lifestyles.”

Stating that brain diseases, along with mental disorders and substance abuse, cause more morbidity and mortality than cancers and heart diseases combined, he said that key to improvement is creating awareness, leading to timely diagnosis and treatment.

Sharing certain figures, he said, “There has been a 44 per cent increase in mental, neurological, and substance use disorder burden from 1990 to 2013 in India, by far exceeding many other Asian countries. This burden is estimated to increase further by 23 per cent in India by 2025, which should ring alarm bells to the medical community.”

Addressing the delegates, Dr Sethi said, “Healthy brain and mind leads to good physical health and happiness. The motto of life should be to achieve happiness.”

Dr Sumit sharing his views said, “Migraine, tension type headache, trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias are the common primary headache. Headache may be secondary to trauma, substance abuse/ withdrawal, infection, vascular disorder etc. If the headache is new in onset, precipitated by exertion, cough, worse than or different in nature than previous headache, associated with fever, fits, or appear in elderly for the first time; they should be taken seriously, and immediate medical attention should be sought. Radiological investigations like MRI usually helps to rule out any underlying structural disease. Majority of the headaches can be treated with appropriate and timely medication.”