Malignant fibrous histiocytoma of the maxilla. Case report and review of the literature.

A case of malignant fibrous histiocytoma (MFH) occurring in the maxilla is presented. Although MFH is now recognised as the most common soft tissue sarcoma of late adult life, it rarely occurs in bone and then more usually in the long bones. Presentation affecting the facial bones and skull is extremely rare, but should be considered in the differential diagnosis of bone tumours affecting the maxilla. Skeletal lesions appear more aggressive than those in soft tissues. Early radical excision is the treatment of choice although radiotherapy for inoperable tumours may lead to regression, as in the case presented here.