Detection of numerical chromosomal changes in 20 malignant fibrous histiocytomas by FISH

We investigated 20 malignant fibrous histiocytomas (MFHs) with the help of specific centromeric probes for chromosomes 1, 3, 4, 6, 8, 9, 12, 16, 17 and 18. The results show a broad variation in the number of signals per nucleus. However, tumors can be assigned into four groups: i) with mostly disomic clones, ii) with a high percentage of polysomic clones, iii) with a considerable amount of monosomic and nullisomic clones and iv) with a tendency in both directions. A gain of spots per nucleus takes place in 75-100% of the investigated tumors - the highest incidence occurring with respect to chromosome 3. A loss of spots per nucleus occurred in 20-60% of the tumors - predominantly with respect to chromosome 1.