Updates

Mitochondrial Clinic

As part of the Neuroscience Center, which is consistently rated among the top children’s specialty centers in the US, the Mitochondrial Clinic is a national leader in the management, treatment, evaluation, research and education of mitochondrial disease.  We are a certified center of the national Mitochondrial Care Network and are members of the United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation and the Mitochondrial Medicine Society.

Severity of mitochondrial diseases

The mitochondria are the “power houses” of the cell, producing energy for the different body systems. While the mitochondria’s functioning can be interrupted with various health problems, mitochondrial diseases refer to a group of genetic conditions in which the primary problem is inherent dysfunction of the mitochondria.

Mitochondrial diseases can range widely in severity. In children, symptoms may be mild and manageable, or they may be complex, progressive, and life-threatening. Because mitochondria provide energy to nearly every organ, these conditions can affect multiple body systems and may change over time. 

Ranked #1 in Neurology & Neurosurgery

Proud to be ranked #1 in the country in Neurology and Neurosurgery by U.S. News & World Report.

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Texas Children’s expertise

Each child’s journey is unique, which is why early diagnosis, careful monitoring, and individualized care are essential. We tailor our treatments to each individual depending on the specific mitochondrial disorder and the symptoms involved. Our clinic is dedicated to supporting children and families across the full spectrum of mitochondrial disease management — with expertise, coordination, and compassion. 

The Pediatric Mitochondrial Clinic also offers guidance in emerging research opportunities. 

Our patient referral process 

To obtain an appointment with the Mitochondrial Clinic, a referral showing a molecularly confirmed diagnosis of a primary mitochondrial disorder is required.

  • Internal referrals (inside Texas Children’s): Place “referral to neurogenetics” order with molecularly confirmed diagnosis in the referral.
  • External referrals (outside Texas Children’s): Fax referral to 832-825-3504 with genetic test results showing molecularly confirmed diagnosis. Include genetic test results, the referring provider’s last clinical note, and any other pertinent medical records (such as EEG, brain MRI, lab results).

Our pediatric Mitochondrial Clinic can provide precision-based management and consultation support to the referring provider(s) to support the genetic diagnosis. After this, an individualized treatment plan can be created.

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