Myopathy associated with carcinoma: A case report [Karsinoma ile i·lişkili miyopati]

Malignant neoplasia such as infiltrative ductal carcinoma may be associated with skeletal muscle abnormalities. Peripheral nerve and muscle involvement may coexist. This situation has led to the term neuromyopathy. Myopathies associated with malign neoplasm are rare and they may be classified as cachectic myopathy, chronic carcinomatous myopathy, subacute necrotizing carcinomatous myopathy and dermatomyositis associated with carcinoma. A 48-years-old female presented with fatigue and weakness of her limbs. She had undergone operation for invasive intraductal breast carcinoma 4 years ago and she has been still taking chemotherapeutic agents such as gemcitabine and vinorelbine. In her neurological examination, muscle power was 3/5 in proximal muscle groups of lower extremities. Deep tendon reflexes were normoactive in upper extremities and absent in lower extremities. The remaining neurological examination was unremarkable. Electromyography was consistent with myopathy in proximal muscle groups of all limbs. A biopsy from the biceps muscle was performed. Type two fiber atrophy was observed and endomysial and perimysial connective tissue stained focally with alkalen phosphatase. These findings were evaluated as chronic carcinomatous myopathy. The clinical and pathologic findings are discussed. Copyright © 2006 by Türkiye Klinikleri