19P+ MARKER CHROMOSOME CORRELATES WITH RELAPSE IN MALIGNANT FIBROUS HISTIOCYTOMA

In this study, we examined the relationship of 19p 13 aberrations, usu ally leading to addition of unknown material (19p+), and ring chromoso mes to clinical outcome in patients with malignant fibrous histiocytom a (MFH). Analysis of 69 MFHs revealed 19 tumors with 19p+ and 24 tumor s with ring chromosomes. After a median follow-up period of 36 months, 24 patients developed metastases, and 27 patients developed local rec urrences. Ten patients had both local recurrences and metastases. Loca l recurrence was more common in association with 19p+ than without. Me tastasis was more common with 19p+ tumors in high-risk patients (tumor size >5 fm and grade Ill-IV; n = 48) than those without 19p+. There w as a trend suggesting fewer relapses after tumors with ring chromosome s. 19p+ may be an independent marker of unfavorable outcome in MFH. (C ) 1996 Wiley-Liss, Inc.