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    Last Updated: 10/30/2025

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    MediFind found 2 doctor with experience in MELAS Syndrome near Atlanta, GA. Of these, 2 are Experienced.

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    2 providers found
      Experienced in MELAS Syndrome

      Dr. Jaime E. Vengoechea-Barrios
      Medical Genetics | Pediatrics
      Experienced in MELAS Syndrome

      Dr. Jaime E. Vengoechea-Barrios
      Medical Genetics | Pediatrics

      The Emory Clinic Inc

      1365 Clifton Rd Ne, 
      Atlanta, GA 
       (4.9 miles away)
      404-778-7525
      Languages Spoken:
      English, Arabic, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish
      See accepted insurances
      Accepting New Patients

      Jaime Vengoechea-Barrios is a Medical Genetics specialist and a Pediatrics provider in Atlanta, Georgia. Dr. Vengoechea-Barrios is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of MELAS Syndrome. His top areas of expertise are Megalencephalic Leukoencephalopathy with Subcortical Cysts, Multiple Sulfatase Deficiency, Fabry Disease, and Gaucher Disease. Dr. Vengoechea-Barrios is currently accepting new patients.

      Experienced in MELAS Syndrome

      Dr. John M. Shoffner
      Medical Genetics | Neurology
      Experienced in MELAS Syndrome

      Dr. John M. Shoffner
      Medical Genetics | Neurology
      1 Dunwoody Park, Suite 250, 
      Atlanta, GA 
       (12.6 miles away)
      678-225-0222
      Languages Spoken:
      English

      John Shoffner is a Medical Genetics specialist and a Neurologist in Atlanta, Georgia. Dr. Shoffner is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of MELAS Syndrome. His top areas of expertise are Primary Lateral Sclerosis, Myoclonic Epilepsy Associated With Ragged Red Fibers, Myoclonic Epilepsy, and Dentatorubral-Pallidoluysian Atrophy.

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      Last Updated: 10/30/2025

      What is the definition of MELAS Syndrome?

      Mitochondrial encephalomyopathy, lactic acidosis, and stroke-like episodes (MELAS) is a condition that affects many of the body's systems, particularly the brain and nervous system (encephalo-) and muscles (myopathy). The signs and symptoms of this disorder most often appear in childhood following a period of normal development, although they can begin at any age. Early symptoms may include muscle weakness and pain, recurrent headaches, loss of appetite, vomiting, and seizures. Most affected individuals experience stroke-like episodes beginning before age 40. These episodes often involve temporary muscle weakness on one side of the body (hemiparesis), altered consciousness, vision abnormalities, seizures, and severe headaches resembling migraines. Repeated stroke-like episodes can progressively damage the brain, leading to vision loss, problems with movement, and a loss of intellectual function (dementia).

      When should I see a MELAS Syndrome doctor near Atlanta, GA?

      There are various reasons why you may want to see a specialist, such as: 

      • Your primary care provider recommends it. 
      • Your condition requires expert knowledge and specialized care. 
      • Your symptoms persist or worsen despite treatment. 
      • You need specialized testing or procedures. 
      • You want a second opinion.  

      What should I consider when choosing a MELAS Syndrome doctor near Atlanta, GA?

      It’s important to see a provider with expertise in your specific condition. Each provider profile in MediFind’s doctor database includes information on which conditions they treat, years of experience, research contributions, languages spoken, insurance plans accepted, and more.  

      How do I find the best MELAS Syndrome doctor near Atlanta, GA?

      You can find a MELAS Syndrome doctor in any of the 10 largest U.S. cities by clicking below:

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      How does MediFind rank MELAS Syndrome doctors near Atlanta, GA?

      MediFind’s rankings are based on a variety of data sources, such as the number of articles a doctor has published in medical journals, participation in clinical trials and industry conferences, as well as the number of patients that provider sees for a given condition. Note that MediFind’s provider database is not based on user reviews, and providers do not pay to be included in the database. 

      What types of insurance are accepted by MELAS Syndrome doctors near Atlanta, GA?

      Most profiles in MediFind’s doctor database include a list of insurance plans accepted by that provider. However, it’s a good idea to contact the provider’s office to make sure they still accept your insurance, then doublecheck by contacting your insurance plan to confirm they’re in network. 

      How can I book an appointment online with a MELAS Syndrome doctor near Atlanta, GA?

      MediFind offers direct scheduling for certain providers using the “Request Appointment” button on that provider’s profile. If the schedule option is not available for a provider, tap the red “Show Phone Number” button on their profile to get their contact information. If you prefer to find providers who offer online scheduling, select “Schedules online” under the “Availability” category of the filter feature on the left side of the MELAS Syndrome doctor search results page. 

      Why is it important to get a second opinion from a different MELAS Syndrome doctor?

      Second opinions are an opportunity to confirm a diagnosis and its root cause, learn about alternative treatment options, or simply gain peace of mind. Many people, especially those with serious diagnoses, get second opinions so they can understand all their options and make informed decisions, so don’t hesitate to get one if you have any doubts or need more information or clarification regarding your care. Note that some insurance plans require second opinions, while others don’t cover second opinions, so be sure to confirm with your insurance provider first.   

      How can I prepare for my appointment with a MELAS Syndrome doctor near Atlanta, GA?

      Prepare for your appointment by gathering the following items: 

      • Copies of medical records (dating back at least one year) 
      • Your medical history, including illnesses, medical conditions, surgeries, and other doctors you see 
      • Family history of disease 
      • List of current prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal remedies or supplements including names and doses 
      • Allergies to medications, food, latex, insects, etc.  
      • List of questions and concerns 
      • Your insurance card 

      You might also contact the provider’s office to see if they offer transportation or childcare services or if you’re allowed to bring a loved one for support or to take notes during your visit. 

      What questions should I ask my MELAS Syndrome doctor?

      Here are some sample questions: 

      • Can you explain in simple terms what this condition is and how it’s treated? 
      • What symptoms or side effects should I watch for? 
      • What tests will be involved, and when can I expect results? 
      • Are there other specialists I need to see? 
      • What’s the best way to reach you if I have follow-up questions? 

      How can I learn about the latest clinical trials and research advances my MELAS Syndrome doctor may know about?

      MediFind’s Clinical Trials tool asks you a series of questions to help you narrow down your search by health condition, age, gender, location, how far you’re willing to travel, and more. Each question you answer filters down the number of trials until you find the ones that are most relevant to you. 

      MediFind’s Latest Advances tool features summaries of recent articles published in medical journals. We use cutting-edge technology to scour medical publication databases for the latest research advancements on any given condition, then we simplify this information in a way that’s useful and easy to understand. 

      Can I filter my search to show male or female MELAS Syndrome doctors near Atlanta, GA?

      Look for the filter feature on the left side of the MELAS Syndrome doctor search results page. Select “Female” or “Male” under the “Gender” category to search for female or male providers exclusively. If the “Any” option is selected, it will pull results for both male and female providers. 

      Can I filter my search to find a MELAS Syndrome doctor that offers video calls?

      Look for the filter feature on the left-side of the MELAS Syndrome doctor search results page. Select “Offers telehealth visits” under the Availability category to search for providers who offer virtual appointments (video calls). 

      Reviewed on: 11/11/24  

      By: MediFind Medical Staff 

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