SUBMIT YOUR RESEARCH
Saudi Journal of Pathology and Microbiology (SJPM)
Volume-11 | Issue-08 | 225-231
Original Research Article
Aneurysmal Fibrous Histiocytoma, a Deceptively Pigmented Lesion of Skin: Study of Histopathologic Characteristics with Review of Literature
Hania Fatima, Zoonish Ashfaq, Aliha Shabbir, Qurratulain Chundriger, Nasir Ud Din
Published : Oct. 13, 2026
DOI : https://doi.org/10.36348/sjpm.2026.v11i08.004
Abstract
Background: Aneurysmal fibrous histiocytoma (AFH) is a rare variant of benign fibrous histiocytoma characterized by fibrohistiocytic spindle cells, blood-filled pseudovascular spaces, and hemosiderin deposition. Clinically, it may mimic vascular or melanocytic lesions, posing a diagnostic challenge. We describe the clinicopathological features of 18 cases of AFH and discuss its differential diagnosis. Methods: Archival records from a tertiary institution were searched for cases diagnosed between January 2009 and December 2021. Hematoxylin and eosin-stained sections and immunohistochemical preparations were independently reviewed by two soft tissue pathologists, and clinical, histopathological, and follow-up data were systematically analyzed. Results: The 18 patients had a mean age of 37.1 years (range, 14–64 years), with a slight male predominance M:F = 5:4 (10:8). Preoperative diagnoses were documented in 7 cases (38.9%), most commonly hemangioma (n=3). The back/scapular region was the most frequent site (33.3%), followed by the lower limb (22.2%). Grossly, lesions demonstrated a solid-cystic appearance with blood-filled spaces. Histologically, non-endothelialized blood-filled spaces were surrounded by bland spindle and histiocyte-like cells, most commonly arranged in a storiform pattern (55.6%). Mean hemosiderin deposition was 40.6%. Atypical/monster cells and Touton giant cells were each identified in 35.3% of cases, collagen trapping in 52.9%, and staghorn vessels in 23.5%. Resection was performed in 72.2% of cases. Among 12 patients with available follow-up (4–20 years), local recurrence occurred in 2 (16.7%). Conclusions: AFH can closely mimic vascular and melanocytic tumors. Recognition of its characteristic histopathological features, supported by targeted immunohistochemistry, is essential for accurate diagnosis and avoidance of overtreatment.
Scholars Middle East Publishers
Browse Journals
Payments
Publication Ethics
SUBMIT ARTICLE
Browse Journals
Payments
Publication Ethics
SUBMIT ARTICLE
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License.
© Copyright Scholars Middle East Publisher. All Rights Reserved.