Dr. Francisco Bengoa
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Soft-tissue tumors

Plexiform fibrohistiocytic tumor

Soft tissueIntermediate / locally aggressive or rarely metastasizingFibrohistiocytic tumours

Epidemiology

A rare tumor, more common in children and young adults, generally in the upper limbs. It is usually found as a small, painless lump on a child's forearm or hand that has not changed for months; that slowness does not mean it can be left alone.

Basic features

It is usually located in the dermis or subcutaneous tissue and grows slowly, but with a locally infiltrative pattern.

Usual treatment

Complete resection with adequate margins is recommended when possible.

Outcomes and prognosis

It can recur locally and rarely spread to lymph nodes or the lungs, so it requires follow-up.

Warning signs

These signs do not necessarily mean cancer, but they warrant evaluation before operating on or needling a mass.

  • A soft-tissue mass that grows, is larger than 5 cm, or is deep.
  • Persistent, night-time or progressive bone pain, especially if it limits activity.
  • A fracture from minimal trauma, or an aggressive bone lesion on an X-ray.
  • A lump that comes back after previous surgery.
  • Neurological symptoms, rapid swelling, or pain associated with a mass.

This information is general and does not replace a medical evaluation. A musculoskeletal tumor must be interpreted together with imaging, physical examination, biopsy when appropriate and each patient's context.

Specialist evaluation

If you have a mass, a bone lesion or a report suggesting a tumor, book an evaluation.

Book an appointment