Imaging markers for bulbar involvement in inclusion body myositis among IBM and comparison groups

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This observational study uses neuromuscular ultrasound and MRI to identify imaging biomarkers of bulbar dysfunction in IBM. It compares imaging findings with those from other myopathies, ALS, PLS, and healthy controls during a one-time visit that may include neurological exams, swallowing questionnaires, tongue strength testing, and imaging. The goal is to find sensitive, objective markers that reflect dysphagia and bulbar involvement.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Participants must have a confirmed diagnosis of inclusion body myositis (IBM), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), primary lateral sclerosis (PLS), or myopathy in accordance with the respective diagnostic criteria.
* Participants with disease must have clinically relevant laboratory testing for disease biomarkers (e.g., Creatine Kinase (CK), Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP), Complete Blood Count (CBC)) within the last 12 months.
* Participants must be able to remain supine for 30 minutes or longer and cannot have significant breathing difficulties.
* Healthy controls must not have any neuromuscular disease.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Unable or unwilling to provide written informed consent.
* Medical history or clinically significant physical examination or laboratory results that, in the opinion of the investigator, would render the participant unsuitable for the study.
* Participants who are unlikely to comply with the study protocol or, in the opinion of the investigator, would not be a suitable candidate for participation in the study.
* Patients with IBM, ALS, or myopathy who have another known neuromuscular condition with known bulbar involvement.
* Any patient who has undergone a procedure for dysphagia, including myotomy, dilatation, or Botox.

Where it's running

• The Johns Hopkins Hospital
  Baltimore, Maryland, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Abdullah Z AlQahtani, MD MPH — the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine
• Study coordinator: Joseph D Niang, B.A.
• Email: jniang1@jh.edu
• Phone: 410-570-3949

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.