In this Article

• What is mitochondrial myopathies?
• Is there any treatment for mitochondrial disease?
• What is the prognosis for mitochondrial disease?
• What research is being done for mitochondrial disease?
• Organizations
• Mitochondrial Disease Glossary
• Mitochondrial Disease Index

Is there any treatment for mitochondrial disease?

Although there is no specific treatment for any of the mitochondrial myopathies, physical therapy may extend the range of movement of muscles and improve dexterity. Vitamin therapies such as riboflavin, coenzyme Q, and carnitine (a specialized amino acid) may provide subjective improvement in fatigue and energy levels in some patients.

What is the prognosis for mitochondrial disease?

The prognosis for patients with mitochondrial myopathies varies greatly, depending largely on the type of disease and the degree of involvement of various organs. These disorders cause progressive weakness and can lead to death.

What research is being done for mitochondrial disease?

The NINDS conducts and supports research on mitochondrial myopathies. The goals of this research are to increase scientific understanding of these disorders and to find ways to effectively treat, prevent, or potentially cure them.

Select this link to view a list of studies currently seeking patients.

Organizations

Muscular Dystrophy Association
3300 East Sunrise Drive
Tucson, AZ 85718-3208
mda@mdausa.org
http://www.mda.org
Tel: 520-529-2000
800-344-4863
Fax: 520-529-5300

United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation
8085 Saltsburg Road Suite 201
Pittsburgh, PA 15239
info@umdf.org
http://www.umdf.org
Tel: 412-793-8077
Fax: 412-793-6477

National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD)
P.O. Box 1968 (55 Kenosia Avenue)
Danbury, CT 06813-1968
orphan@rarediseases.org
http://www.rarediseases.org
Tel: 203-744-0100
Voice Mail 800-999-NORD (6673)
Fax: 203-798-2291

SOURCE: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

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