Neurological burden of COVID-19: a study of cerebrovascular events in a Brazilian tertiary hospital.

INTRODUCTION: Neurological complications, particularly cerebrovascular diseases, have emerged as a significant concern in patients with coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Understanding these characteristics is essential for improving the clinical management and outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This observational study analyzed data from patients hospitalized at Hospital da Irmandade da Santa Casa de Misericórdia de São Paulo between 2020 and 2021. We included patients aged ≥18 years with a confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection and a diagnosis of cerebrovascular disease within 60 days of symptom onset. Clinical, demographic, and outcome data were collected and analyzed. RESULTS: Among the 1998 patients with confirmed COVID-19, 550 (27.5%) presented with neurological symptoms. Fifty patients were diagnosed with cerebrovascular disease: 27 (54%) had ischemic stroke, 20 (40%) had hemorrhagic stroke, and three (6%) had cerebral venous thrombosis. Patients with neurological symptoms had significantly higher mortality rates and longer hospital stays than those without neurological symptoms. CONCLUSION: This study highlights the severity and clinical impact of cerebrovascular events in COVID-19 patients. These findings reinforce the need for early neurological evaluation, and underscore the importance of accessible and cost-effective strategies for surveillance, prevention, and timely intervention in high-risk populations.