Mitochondrial DNA-associated Leigh syndrome spectrum (mtDNA-LSS) is part of a continuum of progressive neurodegenerative disorders caused by abnormalities of mitochondrial energy generation, which includes the overlapping phenotypes mtDNA-associated Leigh syndrome and mtDNA-associated Leigh-like syndrome. Mitochondrial DNA-LSS is characterized by onset of manifestations typically between ages three and 12 months, often following an intercurrent illness (usually viral) or metabolic challenge (vaccinations, surgery, prolonged fasting). Decompensation (often with elevated lactate levels in blood and/or cerebrospinal fluid) is typically associated with developmental delay and/or regression. Neurologic features include hypotonia, spasticity, seizures, movement disorders, cerebellar ataxia, and peripheral neuropathy. Brain stem dysfunction may manifest with respiratory symptoms, swallowing difficulties, ophthalmoparesis, and abnormalities in thermoregulation. Extraneurologic manifestations may include poor weight gain, cardiomyopathy, and conduction defects. Up to 50% of individuals die by age three years, most often from respiratory or cardiac failure. [from GeneReviews]