MELAS (Mitochondrial myopathy, Encephalopathy, Lactic Acidosis, and Stroke-like episodes)

MELAS is a rare genetic disorder that affects how cells produce energy, primarily impacting muscles and the brain. It results from mutations in mitochondrial DNA, leading to impaired energy production. Symptoms include muscle weakness, neurological issues like seizures or stroke-like episodes, learning difficulties, and elevated lactic acid levels in the blood. These episodes can cause sudden neurological deficits similar to strokes but are not caused by blocked arteries. MELAS typically begins in childhood or early adulthood and varies in severity. Management focuses on alleviating symptoms and supporting affected organ functions, but there is currently no cure for this condition.