STEROID MYOPATHY IN CANCER-PATIENTS

We prospectively evaluated 15 adult cancer patients being treated with adrenocorticosteroids (steroids) to determine the frequency and time course of ''steroid myopathy.'' Nine (60%) developed clinically detect able proximal muscle weakness that, in six, was severe enough to inter fere with activities of daily living. Proximal muscle weakness develop ed within 15 days in eight of nine patients and was significantly rela ted to the cumulative dose of steroid. Eight of nine patients with pro ximal muscle weakness, and two of six without such weakness, experienc ed a significant decline in respiratory function, leading to symptomat ic dyspnea in four patients of the former group. In three patients who could be followed for more than 3 months off steroids, there was eith er improvement or resolution of the weakness and, when present, of the respiratory impairment. Steroid myopathy is a common complication amo ng cancer patients receiving steroids. It can often affect respiratory function even when proximal limb muscles remain strong. Clinical reco gnition is important since steroid myopathy can lead to increased morb idity and may be reversible with reduction or discontinuation of stero ids.