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How long can you live with inclusion body myositis?
While sporadic inclusion body myositis is a progressive disease, life expectancy for those with sIBM is usually the same as for those without the disease. In fact, IBM patients usually don’t die from the disease, but from complications (often preventable) that are associated with it.
What causes IBM disease?
Sporadic inclusion body myositis (s-IBM) has no known causes. It has an autoimmune component, which means the body attacks itself. However, other factors could be at play, and it’s still unknown what triggers s-IBM. Hereditary inclusion body myopathy (h-IBM) can be linked to genetic factors.
Is IBM hereditary?
The underlying cause of IBM is poorly understood and likely involves the interaction of genetic, immune-related, and environmental factors. Some people may have a genetic predisposition to developing IBM, but the condition itself typically is not inherited.
Is autoimmune myositis fatal?
Nevertheless, myositis is a serious illness that, in most cases, needs to be treated aggressively. With inadequate or no treatment, myositis can cause significant disability and even death. There is no cure for any of the forms of myositis.
Is IBM fatal?
Natural history studies have not shown reduced lifespan, but most clinicians agree that IBM can be an indirect cause of death, mainly due to aspiration pneumonia in patients with difficulty swallowing (dysphagia). In rare cases, respiratory failure due to respiratory muscle weakness may occur.
Can IBM be cured?
There is currently no cure for IBM. The primary goal of management is to optimize muscle strength and function. Management may include exercise, fall prevention, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy (for dysphagia).
What is the best medicine for IBM?
There is no effective course of treatment for IBM. The disease is not responsive to corticosteroids and immunosuppressive drugs – two drugs that often treat inflammatory or autoimmune conditions.