Inclusion body myositis

Inclusion body myositis (IBM) is an inflammatory muscle disease, characterized by slowly progressive wasting and weakness of the arms and legs. Two features characterize the sIBM muscle, profound inflammation and protein abnormalities within the muscle cells. The inflammation aspect is similar to polymyositis however, polymyositis does not display many of the abnormal cellular changes seen in sIBM. Additionally, in contrast with polymyositis(PM), sIBM affects men more than women and is resistant to treatment (PM often responds well). Symptoms usually begin after 50 years of age. There is no effective treatment for the disease.

Related Topics:
Inflammatory - Muscle - Disease

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Sporadic inclusion body myositis (sIBM) is a disease of the muscle cells. The muscle cells somehow become abnormal and the immune system kills them, weakening the muscles. Its name comes form the fact that the muscles in sIBM are characterized by "inclusion bodies" within the cells. sIBM is a rare disease, diagnosed in only about 5 people per million, although not much research exists on the number of cases and some doctors feel the numbers are much higher. It is more common in men (2 to 3 males to 1 female). sIBM is an age-related disease - as we get older it gets more and more common. It usually appears after the age of 50 and is the most common acquired muscle disorder seen in older people although about 20% of cases display symptoms before the age of 50. Weakness comes on slowly and progresses steadily and may lead to severe weakness and wasting of arm and leg muscles. Patients may become unable to perform daily living activities and be confined to wheelchairs. sIBM is not considered a fatal disorder - all things being equal, sIBM will not kill you (but the risk of serious injury due to falls is increased).

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