Recruiting

Brain imaging to understand long COVID neurological symptoms

Plain-English translation of NCT06920628 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated July 2026 · Translation generated July 2026 · How we translate trials

Phase 1 — Testing in a small group (usually 20–80 people) to find a safe dose and watch for side effects.

What is this trial?

Researchers want to understand what happens in the brains of people with long COVID who have neurological symptoms—like brain fog, trouble thinking clearly, or movement problems. This study uses a special type of brain scan called PET imaging to look for signs of inflammation in specific brain regions. Participants will also receive an immune therapy called IVIg (intravenous immunoglobulin) and have a second scan to see if the treatment changes the inflammation markers.

Long COVID can cause serious neurological problems that don't have clear explanations yet. Researchers believe inflammation in the brain might be responsible, but they don't have a good way to measure it or confirm this theory. This study aims to find and measure that inflammation, and to test whether a known immune therapy might help reduce it.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you are between 18 and 70 years old
you have been diagnosed with long COVID with neurological symptoms through screening at the National Institutes of Health
you are in overall good health and able to understand and consent to the study procedures
you have adequate blood flow in your wrists and no metal objects that would interfere with brain imaging

You likely don't qualify if…

you have taken NSAIDs (over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen) in the two weeks before a scan
you have taken corticosteroids or immunosuppressant medications in the month before a scan
you have a current substance use disorder or alcohol use disorder
you have significant abnormalities on heart tests or blood work, or kidney problems

What participation looks like

You will come to the National Institutes of Health for brain imaging appointments. During your visit, researchers will perform a PET scan—a specialized imaging test where you receive an injection of a harmless radioactive tracer and then lie still in a scanner for about an hour while it takes pictures of your brain. You will also receive an infusion of IVIg treatment. After the treatment, you will return for a second brain scan to see if the inflammation markers have changed. The study includes safety blood tests and a finger-tapping test to check your motor coordination.

Brain imaging to understand long COVID neurological symptoms

What is this trial?

Do you qualify?

What participation looks like

Trial locations(1 site)