Inclusion body myositis and dysphagia. Presentation, intervention and outcome at a swallowing clinic

This study reviewed patients with inclusion body myositis who were referred for assessment of dysphagia at a tertiary swallow clinic. It describes symptoms at presentation, imaging and management strategies.

A retrospective review of electronic patient records was performed between 2016 and 2020.

Twenty-four patients were included, with a mean age of 72 years. Baseline modified Sydney Swallow Questionnaires identified problems with hard or dry food, food sticking, and repeated swallowing. Twenty-two patients had a Reflux Symptom Index score that could indicate significant reflux. Video swallow identified specific problems, including tongue base retraction (96 per cent) and residual pharyngeal pooling (92 per cent). Seven patients (30 per cent) had features of aspiration on imaging despite a median penetration-aspiration scale score of 2. Four patients received balloon dilatation, and two patients underwent cricopharyngeal myotomy.

This study helped to profile features of dysphagia in patients with inclusion body myositis. More evidence is needed to determine the most effective management pathway for these patients.