What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• BFH of Bone

What is Benign Fibrous Histiocytoma of Bone? (Definition/Background Information)

• Benign Fibrous Histiocytoma (BFH) of Bone is a rare and benign tumor that affects the bone
• Usually, individuals older than 20 years are affected by Benign Fibrous Histiocytoma of Bone
• The affected bones include the pelvic bones (both the sacrum and ilium), ribs, femur, tibia, humerus, and bones around the knee joint

Who gets Benign Fibrous Histiocytoma of Bone? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Benign Fibrous Histiocytoma of Bone usually occurs in individuals in the 3rd decade of life
• The tumor is rare in children and teenagers
• Both men and women are prone to tumor formation
• There is no known ethnic or racial preference for Benign Fibrous Histiocytoma of Bone

What are the Risk Factors for Benign Fibrous Histiocytoma of Bone? (Predisposing Factors)

• Presently, no risk factors are evident for Benign Fibrous Histiocytoma of Bone

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Benign Fibrous Histiocytoma of Bone? (Etiology)

The exact cause for Benign Fibrous Histiocytoma of Bone is presently unknown.

• Some researchers believe that it is caused due to inflammation, while others consider that it is caused due to neoplastic proliferation
• Research is being conducted to determine the exact cause of the condition

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Benign Fibrous Histiocytoma of Bone?

In a majority of cases, Benign Fibrous Histiocytoma of Bone does not cause any significant signs and symptoms. Occasionally, the tumor may present bone pain.

How is Benign Fibrous Histiocytoma of Bone Diagnosed?

Benign Fibrous Histiocytoma of Bone is often diagnosed incidentally on radiological studies of the affected region, which are undertaken for other conditions. The tests and procedures may include:

• X-ray of the bone
• MRI scan of the bone
• Bone scans
• A differential diagnosis, to eliminate other tumor types should be considered before arriving at a definitive diagnosis. The differential diagnosis may include:
  • Giant cell tumor of bone
  • Low-grade fibrosarcoma
  • Xanthoma of bone
  • Fibrous cortical defect
  • Non-ossifying fibroma
• Biopsy: A biopsy is the removal of samples of cells or affected tissues. These samples are then examined under the microscope to look for signs of cancer. The tumor is often biopsied to rule out other bone tumors

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Benign Fibrous Histiocytoma of Bone?

The complications of Benign Fibrous Histiocytoma of Bone may include:

• Fracture at the site of the tumor
• Occasionally, the tumor may return after removal resulting in recurrent Benign Fibrous Histiocytoma of Bone

How is Benign Fibrous Histiocytoma of Bone Treated?

The treatment of Benign Fibrous Histiocytoma of Bone may involve the following measures:

• In a majority of cases, no treatment is necessary, although close follow-up of the bone lesion is often recommended
• In individuals who have aggressive tumors, cryotherapy can help reduce the incidence of recurrences
• If there is significant bone pain, the tumor can be removed surgically using the following techniques:
  • Bone curettage
  • Bone grafting

The treatment of BFH of Bone is a complete surgical excision of the tumor, which can result in a cure. Once the tumor is completely removed, it usually does not recur.

How can Benign Fibrous Histiocytoma of Bone be Prevented?

Currently, there are no methods available to prevent the formation of Benign Fibrous Histiocytoma of Bone.

What is the Prognosis of Benign Fibrous Histiocytoma of Bone? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• Benign Fibrous Histiocytoma of Bone is a benign tumor without any significant symptoms; the prognosis is usually excellent
• Due to possible tumor recurrence, it should be followed closely over a period of time after treatment (surgery). The tumor is known to recur in 1 in 6 individuals after treatment (i.e., in 15% of the cases)
• In some cases, these bone tumors are removed to confirm the diagnosis and eliminate the possibility of other bone tumor types

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Benign Fibrous Histiocytoma of Bone:

Please visit our Cancer & Benign Tumor Health Center for more physician-approved health information:

http://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/cancer/