Mitochondrial encephalomyopathy with lactic acidosis and stroke-like episodes in an older adult mimicking cerebral infarction: a Chinese case report

Abstract

Gao-Li Fang,1 Yang Zheng,2 Yin-Xi Zhang2 1Department of Neurology, Hangzhou Red Cross Hospital, Hangzhou, China; 2Department of Neurology, Second Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China Abstract: Few cases of mitochondrial encephalomyopathy with lactic acidosis and stroke-like episodes (MELAS) with an onset older than 60 years have been reported. Herein, we report a 63-year-old Chinese female initially suspected of ischemic infarction but was ultimately diagnosed with MELAS. Therefore, even in the elderly, a diagnosis of MELAS should be considered when encountering patients with recurrent stroke-like episodes, cognitive dysfunction, and psychotic symptoms. In order to achieve the correct diagnosis and launch the appropriate management in time, a detailed medical history together with appropriate diagnostic laboratory investigations should therefore be collected. Keywords: mitochondrial encephalomyopathy with lactic acidosis and stroke-like episodes, adult late onset, cerebral infarction

Keywords

• mitochondrial encephalomyopathy with lactic acidosis and stroke-like episodes
• elderly
• cerebral infarction