Malignant fibrous histiocytoma: between the past and the present.
The precise nature and diagnostic concept of malignant fibrous histiocytoma (MFH) has been debated for years. Currently, a histiocytic lineage of the tumor cells is no longer favored. The nomenclature and classification of MFH and its subtypes have also been changed. The MFH pattern, especially that of storiform-pleomorphic variant, is viewed as a morphologic pattern shared by a number of sarcomas as well as by other nonsarcomas. Therefore, a diagnosis of MFH based solely on morphology is no longer acceptable and identification of a line of differentiation should be sought. A diagnosis of MFH should be made only for pleomorphic sarcomas in which no specific line of differentiation is discerned. Precise categorization of MFH-like tumors may require thorough sampling of the tumor and judicious use of immunohistochemistry and/or electron microscopy. Familiarity with the current terminology and classification of MFH and its subtypes is of paramount significance in the modern practice of pathology.
Department of Pathology, State University of New York,Downstate Medical Center at Brooklyn, USA. oalagha@healthcare.uiowa.edu
Osama M
OM
Al-Agha
Anne A
AA
Igbokwe
D051677:Histiocytoma, Malignant Fibrous / Q000145:classification* / Q000175:diagnosis*; D006801:Humans; D007150:Immunohistochemistry; D012983:Soft Tissue Neoplasms / Q000145:classification* / Q000175:diagnosis*