Neuroinvasion mechanisms associated with brain inflammation in infections bysars-cov-2

Introduction: Studies have already shown that SARS-CoV-2 can penetrate the central nervous system by different mechanisms, triggering a series of pathologies, including viral encephalitis, meningitis and necrotizing encephalopathy. Therefore, the aim of this study is to describe the neural infection mechanisms performed by SARS-CoV-2 in severe cases of COVID-19. Methodology: This study is a descriptive literature review, carried out by searching the following databases: Google Scholar, PubMed and WHO newsletters. Results and Discussion: The brain invasion mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 can occur in different ways. One of them is through neural dissemination through peripheral nerves, where viral penetration occurs through olfactory and enteric nerves, causing the virus to reach the central nervous system (CNS); on the other hand, the hematogenic pathway is related to infected leukocytes and direct infection of brain cells that express the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor, such as blood vessels in the cerebral microcirculation and neurons. Conclusion: Brain invasion by SARS-CoV-2 causes a number of serious problems for the patient. Among them, the brain inflammation generated by the presence of the virus is directly linked to neuronal death and the development of various sequelae in survivors.