Abstract:
Introduction. The Covid-19 pandemics require rethinking the rehabilitation plan for people who suffer
from neurological conditions. Despite prophylactic measures, some sporadic cases can also occur in
rehabilitation facilities, which makes patients with neurological disabilities more vulnerable.
Aim of study. The aim of our study is to observe the main clinical characteristics of Covid-19 positive
patients that underwent rehabilitation for neurological conditions.
Methods and materials. A number of 9 Covid-19 positive cases were registered in the database of the
neurorehabilitation department from Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery. An analysis of demographic
data, and clinical features was performed in order to determine neurological deficits and comorbidities of
patients admitted for rehabilitation.
Results. Among the studied cases 5 were males and 6 females with a mean age of 56,44 (from 18 to 79)
years. The mean period of hospitalization of 7,8 days, with further transfer to Covid-19 specialize. The
main cause of hospitalization was stroke in 5 cases (3 hemorrhagic and 2 ischemic), 2 cases of traumatic
brain injury, 1 case of brain arteriovenous malformation, and 1 case of cerebral tumor. The most common
neurological deficits were hemi or tetra-paresis, and cognitive disorders. Among the comorbidities that
were present in positive Covid-19 tested patients were hypertension, diabetics and urinary infections.
Conclusion. Isolated positive Covid-19 cases among people can occur in spite of measures of prevention
of infection in neurorehabilitation services. Co-occurrence of Covid-19 infection in patients with
neurological disabilities makes patients more complex and vulnerable and requires strengthening the
rehabilitation services along with adequate clinical management.
