MELAS

What is MELAS?

Mitochondrial Encephalomyopathy, lactic acidosis, and stroke-like episodes (more commonly known as MELAS syndrome), is a rare disorder that affects many of the body’s systems, particularly the brain and nervous system (encephalo-) and muscles (myopathy).

MELAS syndrome affects boys and girls equally and all ethnic groups equally. It is common for symptoms appear in childhood following a period of normal development, although they can begin at any age. Early symptoms may include muscle weakness and pain, recurrent headaches, loss of appetite, vomiting, and seizures. For approximately 75 percent of cases symptoms have begun before the age of 20 years and most before age 40. For more information about MELAS click here.

Q&A: Here is where we answer some of our members questions. If you have any questions please email them to info@mda.org.nz and we will endeavour to answer them.