Mitochondrial diseases: a nosological update.

Mitochondrial diseases are disorders caused by impairment of the mitochondrial respiratory chain, characterized by clinical-genetic heterogeneity and frequent multisystemic involvement. It is difficult to establish a precise genotype/phenotype correlation and obtain a definitive nosology. Today's genetic classification distinguishes disorders caused by defects in the mitochondrial genome (sporadic or maternally-inherited) from disorders caused by defects in the nuclear genome (autosomally-inherited).

Study of sunbathing in children: the preliminary evaluation of a prevention program.

Aims And Background: Sunburn during childhood is associated with an increased risk for developing melanoma in an adult age. The aim of the present study was to define the validity of our educational program in order to teach the positive effects and risks of sun exposure during childhood.

Patients And Methods: We conducted a population-based, case-control study in primary schools of three towns in Northern Italy (Brescia, Bergamo and Trento) between 2001 and 2002.