Exploring the link trend in the field of coronaviruses and cognitive impairment: A bibliometric analysis based on bibliometrix.

BACKGROUND: Coronaviruses (CoVs) significantly impact human health, targeting the respiratory and nervous systems and causing long-term complications such as cognitive impairment. While the cognitive effects of CoVs, including severe acute respiratory syndrome CoV, are well-documented, a comprehensive analysis of the evolving research landscape remains unexplored. METHODS: We performed a bibliometric analysis of CoV-related cognitive research from 1998 to 2025 using data from the Web of Science Core Collection. Bibliometrix software was employed to examine publication trends, geographical contributions, institutional output, author collaborations, and research hotspots. RESULTS: Among 4,076 publications analyzed, a dramatic rise in research output was observed post-2020, correlating with the COVID-19 pandemic. The United States led in publication count (24.63%) and citations, followed by Italy and China. The University of Toronto is ranked as the most prolific institution. The most highly cited articles are from Alzheimer's and Dementia, The Lancet Infectious Diseases, and eClinicalMedicine. Cao Bing, Mazza, Mario Gennaro, and Wang Yi had the most influence on CoV impact on cognitive impairment. Keyword analysis revealed emerging research themes such as "depression," "anxiety," and "health," reflecting the psychological and cognitive effects of the pandemic. Highly cited articles identified neuroinflammatory and neuroimmune pathways, emphasizing the role of viral invasion in cognitive dysfunction. CONCLUSION: The COVID-19 pandemic has driven a surge in studies linking CoV infections to cognitive impairment. This research highlights mechanisms such as blood-brain barrier disruption, neuronal damage, and altered cerebral glucose metabolism. Future studies should focus on standardized diagnostic criteria and therapeutic strategies to mitigate long-term cognitive sequelae.