Inclusion-body myositis (IBM) is found in more men than women with onset usually occurring after age 50. A small number of IBM cases may be hereditary (h-IBM) but most are “sporadic” (s-IBM) meaning there is not a direct genetic link. In most cases, IBM progresses slowly over months or years. There is currently no effective treatment for IBM.

Signs and symptoms

Signs

• Frequent falling episodes
• Trouble climbing stairs or standing from a seated position
• A foot that seems to drop when walking, causing tripping
• Weakened hand grip
• Difficulty swallowing
  

Symptoms

• Weakness and noticeable shrinking of the quadriceps (main muscle of the thighs), causing falls
• Weakness in the forearm muscles
• Weakness of muscles below the knees, causing the foot to drop and toes to catch when walking
• Weakness of flexor muscles of the fingers used for gripping
• Weakness of throat muscles, causing trouble swallowing (dysphagia) and possibly choking
• Pain or discomfort as muscles weaken

Updated March 2007