What is fallopian tube cancer?
Fallopian tubes are part of a women’s reproductive system. They are two slender tubes which eggs pass through from an ovary to the uterus. Fallopian tube cancer is very rare. Only about 1-2% of all reproductive cancers in women start in the fallopian tubes.
Normally, cells in the body will grow and divide to replace old or damaged cells. This growth is usually precise. Once enough cells are produced to replace the old ones, normal cells stop dividing. Tumors occur when there is an error and cells continue to grow uncontrollably. With fallopian tube cancer, a tumor begins from cells of the inner walls of a fallopian tube.
Fallopian tube cancer is treatable. Successful treatment of fallopian tube cancer depends on age, stage and location of cancer and other factors.
What are the symptoms of fallopian tube cancer?
Many women don’t show symptoms of fallopian tube cancer. The symptoms that are associated with fallopian tube cancer are similar to other conditions. If they do appear, symptoms may include:
- Pain or pressure in the lower belly
- Lump or swelling in the lower belly
- White, clear or pink discharge from the vagina
- Abnormal bleeding (bleeding between periods, postmenopausal bleeding)
What causes fallopian tube cancer?
The exact causes of fallopian tube cancer are unknown. Fallopian tube cancer can happen at any age but is most commonly diagnosed in women 50-60 years old. However, several possible risk factors include:
- Never having given birth
- Never having breastfed a child
- Never having used birth control pills
- Family history of ovarian or breast cancer
How is fallopian tube cancer diagnosed?
First, your doctor will learn your and your family’s medical history. Your doctor may also perform or order one or more of the following tests:
- Pap test
- Pelvic exam
- CA125 test (blood test for cancer markers)
- Imaging tests such as an ultrasound or MRI
- Biopsy (removing a tiny piece of tissue for examination)
To learn how severe the cancer may be, your doctor will classify it by stage and grade.
How is fallopian tube cancer treated?
Surgery is the main treatment for fallopian tube cancer. One or both fallopian tubes may be removed, along with one or both ovaries. A total hysterectomy (removal of uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes) is also possible. Other treatments may include:
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Clinical trials (experimental treatments)
Your treatment will depend on age, overall health, cancer stage, cancer size and location, as well as other factors.