COVID-19-Induced Sporadic Inclusion Body Myositis

Sporadic inclusion body myositis (sIBM) is an autoimmune condition that is characterized by progressive weakness and muscular atrophy in the extremities. The pathophysiology is not exactly clear; however, some studies have postulated an involvement of cytotoxic T cells (CD8+), causing an autoimmune response. While the implications of COVID-19 infection are an evolving topic, myositis has been previously implicated in other viral etiologies. We discuss a case of sIBM secondary to COVID-19 in a patient with chronic myalgias bringing to light a rare implication of COVID-19 to educate the medical community.

Automated summary

Sporadic inclusion body myositis (sIBM) is a rare autoimmune disease characterized by progressive weakness and muscular atrophy in the extremities. Although the exact pathophysiology is unclear, some studies suggest that cytotoxic T cells (CD8+) are involved, leading to an autoimmune response. This case report highlights a rare implication of COVID-19, as it was found to be associated with the development of sIBM in a patient with chronic myalgias.