Background: Statins inhibit the production of 2,3-dimethoxy,5-methyl,6-polyisoprene parabenzoquinone also known as ubiquinone or coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), which is required for mitochondrial electron transport. Idiopathic or primary CoQ10 deficiencies have been known to cause mitochondrial encephalomyopathy. Methods: We present the case of a patient with mitochondrial syndrome, consisting of mitochondrial encephalomyopathy, lactic acidosis and stroke-like episodes (MELAS), whose symptoms were temporally related to statin therapy. Conclusion: Statins may provoke symptoms related to MELAS in susceptible individuals.

Keywords:
Coenzyme Q10 deficiency, Encephalomyopathy, Mitochondria, Statins
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© 2007 S. Karger AG, Basel
2007
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