Benign fibrous histiocytoma of the femur: A rare pediatric case report

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Benign fibrous histiocytoma is known to be a frequent skin tumor but its occurrence in bone remains very rare especially in pediatric population. This entity is a subject of interest also because histologically it can mimic other fibrohistiocytic lesions of bone such as non-ossifying fibroma. CLINICAL CASE: An 11-year-old patient admitted with swelling of the right thigh and intermittent pain. Radiological evaluation shows cystic lesion of the femur with a soap-bubble and a border of condensation. Histopathological examination of the biopsy sample established the diagnosis of benign fibrous histiocytoma. The patient underwent complete curettage of the lesion with bone graft. There is no recurrence 16 months after surgery. DISCUSSION: Benign fibrous histiocytoma is a rare bone tumor especially in children. Histologically it can mimic non-ossifying fibroma. Thus clinical and radiological features are important to differentiate these tumors in order to choose adequate treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Benign fibrous histiocytoma is probably underestimated in pediatric population. This diagnosis should be considered in any child or teenager who presents with a non-ossifying fibroma accompanied by unexplainable pain or a rapid growing.