Mitochondrial Encephalomyopathy, Lactic Acidosis, and Stroke (MELAS)

Mitochondrial encephalomyopathy, lactic acidosis, and stroke (MELAS) is a mitochondrial encephalomyopathy, caused by an inherited mutation in a mitochondrial gene. The classic MELAS syndrome consists of mitochondrial encephalomyopathy, lactic acidosis, and stroke-like episodes. Variability in the clinical and genetic features of this syndrome presents many difficulties for clinicians. Treatment primarily is based on theory and anecdotes, although guidance also is available from a limited number of controlled clinical studies.