The effects of occult carcinoma on the structure and function of the nervous system have been recognized with increasing frequency during the past decade. This association is most striking in males with a myopathy which begins after the age of 50. Frequently, the myopathy is accompanied by skin changes, and takes the form of dermatomyositis. Electromyographic confirmation of the diagnosis appears more reliable than muscle biopsy or measurement of serum enzymes.
This case report is the first instance of a lateonset myopathy without dermal change recognized in association with malignant melanoma. The melanoma was found in the brain, and was of unknown primary origin.