Malignant fibrous histiocytoma: a retrospective evaluation of 24 patients.

Twenty-four patients with malignant fibrous histiocytoma are being analyzed: 54.2% occurred in the sixth, seventh, and eighth decades of life; 45.8% were located in the extremities. This is a soft tissue sarcoma noted for its pleomorphic histologic appearance. It is postulated that the origin cell is a histiocyte. The local recurrence of metastatic potential of this tumor is difficult to predict from its histological features. Local recurrence after complete excision is frequent. Also, there is a high incidence of distant metastases. Wide local excision with a wide margin around the tumor is the most important treatment modality. The use of postoperative radiotherapy and chemotherapy needs to be evaluated.