What is a malignant fibrous histiocytoma?
A malignant fibrous histiocytoma is a type of cancerous tumor that can start in either bone or, most often, in the soft tissues that connect, support or surround organs and other body parts. Dana-Farber/Boston Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders Center provides comprehensive medical and surgical care for children and adolescents with benign or malignant bone and soft tissue tumors.
The condition is a painless mass that most often turns up in the extremities, although it can occur anywhere in the body. It most commonly spreads (metastasizes) to the lungs, but can also invade the lymph nodes and bone. The cause is unknown but has been linked to genetics, radiation treatment and inherited diseases.
Malignant fibrous histiocytoma is among the most common types of soft tissue tumors found in adults but is rarely found in children. Treatment may include surgery along with radiation and/or chemotherapy. The tumor can come back.
How we care for malignant fibrous histiocytomas
Our Histiocytosis Program to care ensures in-depth discussion of each case and personalized treatment plans for every patient. We integrate expertise from the following specialists at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Boston Children’s Hospital.
- pediatric oncologists, surgical oncologists and radiation oncologists
- pediatric experts from every medical subspecialty, such as orthopedics, ophthalmology, physical therapy and radiology, among others
- highly skilled and experienced pediatric oncology nurses
- child life specialists, psychologists, social workers and resource specialists who provide supportive care before, during and after treatment
We are conducting numerous research studies to help better understand and treat soft tissue and bone sarcomas.
Malignant Fibrous Histiocystoma | Programs & Services
Programs
Histiocytosis Program
Program
The Dana-Farber/Boston Children's Histiocytosis Program provides expert treatment for newly diagnosed or recurrent histiocytosis, which is a cancer-like condition.
Solid Tumor Center
Program
The Solid Tumor Center is an integrated pediatric hematology and oncology partnership between Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Boston Children's Hospital.
Centers
Cancer and Blood Disorders Center
Center
The Dana-Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center is an integrated pediatric hematology and oncology program through Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Boston Children’s Hospital.
Orthopedic Center
Center
Established in 1903, we are one of the world’s most experienced pediatric orthopedic centers. Learn more.
