NCT05738824 · National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS)
Natural History of Inflammatory Muscle Diseases
What this study is about
Objective: To collect information and biospecimens (such as blood, muscle, and skin samples) that will be used to research causes and treatments of inflammatory muscle diseases. Eligibility: People aged 2 years and older with suspected or confirmed inflammatory muscle disease. Healthy volunteers aged 18 years and older are also needed. Design: Participants will have at least 1 clinic visit.
View original scientific description
Objective: To collect information and biospecimens (such as blood, muscle, and skin samples) that will be used to research causes and treatments of inflammatory muscle diseases. Eligibility: People aged 2 years and older with suspected or confirmed inflammatory muscle disease. Healthy volunteers aged 18 years and older are also needed. Design: Participants will have at least 1 clinic visit. Each visit will last 4 to 8 hours. Some may return for additional visits. All participants will undergo these procedures (unless they are unable to): * Physical exam, including blood and urine tests. * Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of the thigh. Participants will lie still on a table with padding around 1 thigh. The table will slide into a tube. The scan will last for approximately 40 minutes. Some procedures are optional: * Muscle biopsy: An area of skin will be numbed. A quarter-inch cut will be made. Several pieces of muscle tissue, about the size of grains of rice, will be removed. * Skin biopsy: An area of skin will be numbed. A piece of skin about a quarter inch in diameter will be removed. * Lymph node biopsy: A small sample of fluid or tissue from a lymph node will taken to check for infection. * Genetic testing. Some of the samples collected may be used for genetic testing.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- In order to be eligible to participate in this study, an individual must meet all of the following criteria: 1\. Ability of subject, or Legally Authorized Representative (LAR) to understand and the willingness to sign a written informed consent and/or assent document. 2a. Patients are adults and minors of age 2 or older, with possible inflammatory myopathy (suspected or confirmed) OR 2b. Healthy volunteers will be adults aged 18 or older.
Exclusion criteria
- 1\. Unwilling to participate in research studies or to provide research samples or data.
Where
- Bethesda, Maryland
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jun 26, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations