A Patient of Secondary Malignant Fibrous Histiocytoma of the Head Following Trauma and Review of the Literature

J Craniofac Surg. 2024 Dec 23. doi: 10.1097/SCS.0000000000011032. Online ahead of print.

Abstract

Malignant fibrous histiocytoma (MFH) is a malignancy originating from soft tissues and ranks among the most prevalent soft tissue sarcomas in adults. The considerable complexity and heterogeneity of MFH contribute to an obscure pathogenesis, presenting with atypical clinical manifestations and pathologic features that complicate the clinical diagnostic process. Typically, MFH manifests in the extremities, trunk, and retroperitoneum, while occurrences in the head and neck regions are exceedingly rare. A thorough review of extant literature indicates that fewer than 5 cases of MFH secondary to a documented history of trauma have been reported globally. This article delineates an exceptionally rare instance of secondary MFH of the head subsequent to trauma, elaborating on the diagnostic and therapeutic procedures undertaken. It seeks to enrich the understanding of MFH treatment and pathogenesis and, by reviewing pertinent literature, aims to elucidate the clinical characteristics and prognostic outlook of MFH.