Acute Hemorrhagic Leukoencephalopathy Triggered by COVID-19 Infection

ABSTRACT

Background: This study represents an additional case of a rare entity and complication of COVID-19. Purpose: To further describe COVID’s association with acute hemorrhagic leukoencephalopathy (AHL), a variant of acute disseminated encephalomyelitis. Besides, subsequent neuropsychological evaluation is described. Methods: The present case report describes clinical, laboratory, radiological, and electroencephalographic characteristics of AHL triggered by COVID-19, in addition to outcomes in the neuropsychological findings. Results: Radiologic findings of demyelinating lesions in supratentorial white matter permeated by multiple hemorrhagic foci supported the diagnostic of AHL, reinforced by clinical improvement after corticosteroid therapy. Conclusions: There are few similar cases previously reported, and this case highlights the early diagnosis and prompt treatment looking forward to better outcomes in AHL. Further studies are needed to elucidate the involved pathophysiological mechanisms.