Introduction
muscle hypertrophy
DISEASE, ACQUIRED SKELETAL MUSCLE DISEASE, INCLUSION BODY MYOSITIS, INFLAMMATORY MYOPATHIES
Inclusion body myositis (IBM) is the most commonly acquired skeletal muscle disease associated with ageing, with men three times more likely than females to be diagnosed [Exercise has long been considered a vital component of the therapeutic approach in inflammatory myopathies, improving overall quality of life and assisting with maintenance and even improvement of strength and function [Testosterone also improves muscle strength through increased erythropoiesis and protein synthesis leading to muscle hypertrophy [The purpose of this pilot study was to conduct a randomised double-blind, two-arm crossover trial to assess whether testosterone on a background of exercise training would further improve measures of muscle strength, physical function and quality of life in men affected by IBM over and above exercise alone. This study is the first to apply a combination of testosterone supplementation and exercise training in this disease. It was hypothesised that testosterone supplementation in male IBM patients undertaking prescribed exercise would improve muscle strength, physical function and quality of life compared to exercise alone.