Neuropsychiatric manifestations of monkeypox: A clinically oriented comprehensive review

Brain Behav. 2023 Apr;13(4):e2934. doi: 10.1002/brb3.2934. Epub 2023 Feb 27.

Abstract

Monkeypox (MPX) has emerged as a threatening outbreak in recent months. The understanding of disease pathogenesis and its systemic involvement has evolved with time. Both the virus and its vaccine, like other members of the Orthopoxvirus family, were always expected to have neuropsychiatric consequences. Several neurological complications have been reported with MPX and its vaccines that include but not limited to headaches, myalgia, encephalitis, and coma. Psychiatric complications like anxiety and depression have also been reported; however, we lack evidence to present a direct causality. We conducted a literature review to compile recent evidence on neuropsychiatric manifestations and underline the importance of evolving aspects and complications of MPX. We advocate for better reporting of cases and adverse events, to enhance our understanding of the disease, aiding physicians to make more informed decisions, thus facilitating timely diagnosis and treatment.

Keywords: MPX; MPX vaccine; monkeypox; neurological manifestations; outbreak; psychiatric manifestations.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anxiety
  • Anxiety Disorders
  • Coma
  • Disease Outbreaks
  • Humans
  • Mpox (monkeypox)* / epidemiology