Overview. Mitochondrial encephalomyopathy, lactic acidosis, and stroke-like episodes (MELAS) is an extremely rare genetic condition that begins in childhood. The disorder affects many areas of the body, especially the brain and nervous system (encephalo-) and muscles (myopathy).

How long can you live with MELAS?

The prognosis for MELAS is poor. Typically, the age of death is between 10 to 35 years, although some patients may live longer. Death may come as a result of general body wasting due to progressive dementia and muscle weakness, or complications from other affected organs such as heart or kidneys.

Can you be a carrier of MELAS?

Petra Kaufmann: “This study shows that carriers [of the MELAS mutation] have a high burden of disease. Some of these problems are treatable, so early detection and proactive management may reduce this burden.”