Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Mitochondrial (say "my-tuh-KAWN-dree-uhl") diseases are a group of rare diseases that can be passed down from mothers to their children. The diseases happen when mitochondria don't work the way they should. Mitochondria are tiny parts of the cells in your body. They are often called the powerhouse of a cell, because one of their jobs is to make energy. These diseases can appear at any age. And they can affect many different areas of the body. Examples of these diseases include: The symptoms of mitochondrial diseases depend on the type of cells that have damaged mitochondria. These cells include brain cells, muscle cells, and the cells of the eyes and ears. Other parts of the body that may be affected include the kidneys, nerves, and liver. Symptoms can vary from person to person. Mitochondrial disease in brain cells can cause symptoms such as: When the disease is in muscle cells, the symptoms can include: In the cells of the ears or eyes, mitochondrial diseases can cause: If your doctor thinks that you have a mitochondrial disease, your doctor will do a physical exam and medical tests. Your doctor will ask questions about you and your health. You will be asked about your family's health. This is to find out if anyone else in your family has similar symptoms. The kind of medical tests you get will depend on your symptoms and on which parts of your body are affected. Tests that may be done include a muscle biopsy and imaging tests like an MRI. Your doctor may also want you to have a genetic test. Your doctor may suggest that you see a genetic counselor. These counselors are trained to explain the genetic test and what its results can mean. But you will make the decision about whether to have the test. Treatment usually focuses on relieving your symptoms and helping you feel better. You and your doctor will work together to find the treatment that works best for you. You may need to see a specialist or a team of specialists. Treatment may include: Your doctor also may suggest taking certain vitamins and supplements. Your doctor may recommend surgery or other procedures for physical symptoms. These symptoms include drooping eyelids, cataracts, and hearing loss. Current as of: November 15, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Current as of: November 15, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review Board This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org. © 1995-2024 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.Topic Contents
Mitochondrial Diseases
Conditions Basics
What are mitochondrial diseases?
What are the symptoms?
Brain cells
Muscle cells
Ear or eye cells
How are they diagnosed?
How are mitochondrial diseases treated?
Related Information
Credits
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Current as of: November 15, 2023 Author: Healthwise Staff Clinical Review BoardMitochondrial Diseases
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.