Mitochondrial Encephalomyopathy Lactic Acidosis and Stroke-Like Episodes (MELAS): A Case Report and Critical Reappraisal of Treatment Options

Importance: Stroke-like episodes signal progression and significant disability in the mitochondrial encephalomyopathy lactic acidosis and stroke-like episodes syndrome. Arginine is widely used as a treatment for stroke-like episode, although there is little evidence for this intervention. We discuss the management of a patient with mitochondrial encephalomyopathy lactic acidosis and stroke-like episodes who presented with a stroke-like episode.

Observation: During a seizure, which triggers the stroke-like episode, neurons are forced to utilize glycolysis as a source of adenosine triphosphate. Glycolytic by-products are damaging to the neuron. Breakdown of the blood-brain barrier leads to vasogenic edema.

Conclusion: Treatment of stroke-like episode should include anticonvulsants interictally to prevent seizures and dexamethasone ictally to help repair the blood-brain barrier.