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Inclusion body myositis presenting solely as dysphagia
D S Riminton1, S T Chambers, P J Parkin
1Department of Medicine, Christchurch Hospital, New Zealand.
Neurology
|June 1, 1993
Summary
Inclusion body myositis (IBM) can manifest as dysphagia and later limb weakness. Cricopharyngeal myotomy offered improvement for patients with IBM-related swallowing difficulties.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Gastroenterology
- Muscle Diseases
Background:
- Dysphagia is a common symptom that can arise from various underlying conditions.
- Cricopharyngeal muscle dysfunction can significantly impact swallowing.
- Inclusion body myositis (IBM) is a progressive condition affecting muscles.
Observation:
- Two patients initially presented with dysphagia attributed to cricopharyngeal muscle dysfunction.
- These patients later developed progressive limb weakness approximately 2-3 years after the onset of dysphagia.
- Muscle biopsies of the cricopharyngeal region and limbs revealed pathological changes characteristic of inclusion body myositis (IBM).
Findings:
- The muscle biopsies confirmed the presence of inclusion body myositis (IBM) in both patients.
- Surgical intervention, specifically cricopharyngeal myotomy, led to symptomatic improvement in swallowing for both individuals.
- This suggests a potential link between cricopharyngeal muscle dysfunction and IBM.
Implications:
- Inclusion body myositis (IBM) should be considered in the differential diagnosis for patients presenting with unexplained dysphagia.
- Early recognition of IBM in patients with dysphagia may allow for timely intervention.
- Cricopharyngeal myotomy may be a viable treatment option for dysphagia associated with IBM.