Polymyositis associated with chronic myelogenous leukemia

A 53-year-old man with chronic myelogenous leukemia developed progressive proximal muscle weakness with electromyographic and histologic features consistent with polymyositis. Although the association of polymyositis with solid tumors is well recognized, an association with hematologic malignancies has not been firmly established. A survey of the world medical literature reveals one previously reported case of polymyositis and one of dermatomyositis associated with chronic myelogenous leukemia. We conclude that polymyositis does occur in association with chronic myelogenous leukemia. Recognition of this association is important, since treatment of polymyositis can be successful.