What is fallopian tube cancer?
The fallopian tubes are two narrow ducts that extend out from either side of the uterus, reaching towards the ovaries. They provide a pathway for eggs to travel from the ovary to the uterus.
Like most cancers, fallopian tube cancer starts when abnormal cells are rapidly produced, causing tumors. Some tumors are harmless (benign tumors) while others are cancerous (malignant tumors) that can spread to other parts of the body.
Fallopian tube cancer (as the name suggests) is cancer in the fallopian tubes.
Fallopian tube cancer and other cancers
Fallopian tube cancer is fairly rare, accounting for only 1% of cancers in the female reproductive system. It is more common for malignant cancers to start elsewhere, such as in the uterus, ovaries, endometrium, colon, or appendix, and then spread to the fallopian tubes.
However, new research suggests that some ovarian cancers are linked to fallopian tube cancer. When fallopian tube cancer affects the fimbriae (the fringe-like fingers at the end of the fallopian tubes), the cancerous cells could travel to the surface of the ovaries, causing ovarian cancer.
What are the types of fallopian tube cancer?
Carcinomas (cancers that begin in the epithelial tissue lining your organs) can grow from any of the three types of cells that comprise the fallopian tubes.
- Adenocarcinoma – The most common form of fallopian tube cancer, adenocarcinoma starts in the glandular cells lining the fallopian tubes.
- Transitional cell carcinoma – An extremely rare type of cancer potentially caused by an alteration where the cells of the tubal lining resemble the transitional cells of the bladder.
- Leiomyosarcoma – A rare type of cancer that forms in the smooth muscle tissue of the fallopian tubes.
What are fallopian tube cancer risk factors?
Because this type of cancer is so rare, risk factors are not well understood. However, as with most cancers of the reproductive system, the risk of fallopian tube cancer may increase with:
- Age. Fallopian tube cancer most often occurs in women between the ages of 50-70.
- A family history of fallopian tube cancer. There may be a hereditary component to developing this type of cancer.
- Gene mutation. A mutation in the BRCA1 gene has been linked to ovarian and breast cancer. Studies have shown it may increase the risk of fallopian tube cancer as well.
Having a close relative (mother, sister, daughter) with ovarian or breast cancer also raises your risk of fallopian tube cancer.
How to prevent fallopian tube cancer
Women at increased risk of developing fallopian tube cancer may wish to talk to Dr. Aliabadi about a salpingo-oophorectomy. In this procedure, the surgeon removes the fallopian tubes and ovaries as a preventative measure against cancer, even if cancer has not been diagnosed.
If you have a history of breast or ovarian cancer in your family, you should discuss your concerns with a genetic counselor.
What are fallopian tube cancer symptoms?
The key to a good prognosis for patients with fallopian tube cancer is to catch it in its early stage. Unfortunately, many patients do not report any symptoms at all, or their symptoms are confused with an unrelated medical condition.
Some common symptoms of fallopian tube cancer include:
- Clear, white, or bloody vaginal discharge
- Heavy or irregular bleeding, especially post-menopause
- Abdominal pain or pressure
- A pelvic mass or lump
- Pelvic pain or cramping
- Lump or swelling in your lower belly
- Bloating
Abdominal pain or changes to vaginal discharge should always be mentioned to a doctor as they can indicate multiple benign or serious medical problems.
How is fallopian tube cancer diagnosed?
If you are experiencing symptoms, visit our gynecologist right away. Dr. Aliabadi will perform a pelvic examination and order imaging and blood tests to make a diagnosis.
Some tests that you may receive include:
Blood/CA-125 array tests
This blood test will check for a chemical called CA-125. The presence of CA-125 may indicate the presence of a fallopian tube tumor. This test is most helpful for post-menopausal patients. In younger women, the presence of CA-125 more often indicates endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease.
Ultrasound
A transvaginal ultrasound can help detect a mass in the fallopian tubes. This test uses high-energy sound waves to make a picture of your fallopian tubes.
Genetic testing
A genetic specialist can examine your DNA to detect BRCA gene mutations. Detecting this mutation can help you understand your risk for fallopian tube cancer and related cancers.
Computed tomography scan
A CT scan is an imaging technique that uses X-rays to create a 3D projection of the inside of your body. A more detailed image of your fallopian tubes can help us look for tumors.
Magnetic resonance imaging
MRI technology can create detailed images of your internal organs using magnetic waves, allowing Dr. Aliabadi to see any tumors or growths.
Biopsy
If a tumor is found, our healthcare provider will take a sample to send off for biopsy. A biopsy closely examines the tissue sample to determine the type and stage of cancer.
What is fallopian tube cancer treatment?
The treatment for fallopian tube cancer will take into account the stage of the disease along with the patient’s medical history, current health, personal preference, and other health factors. The goal of treatment is to get rid of cancer completely with minimal side effects.
A doctor specializing in gynecologic oncology (treating gynecological cancers) typically treats this type of cancer. These providers typically perform the surgery and manage your cancer care plan and treatment options.
Treatment of fallopian tube cancer almost always consists of removal of the uterus (hysterectomy) and removal of the ovaries, cervix, fallopian tubes, adjacent lymph nodes, and surrounding tissues.
For advanced stages of cancer, such as stage III, or stage IV, that has spread to other parts of the body, doctors usually remove as much of the cancer as possible.
Chemotherapy for cancer patients is usually necessary after surgery. Chemotherapy may be used to destroy any small areas of remaining cancer cells. Radiation therapy is rarely useful for this type of cancer.
After treatment for fallopian tube cancer, your healthcare team will monitor you for the recurrence of the disease and treat any side effects you may be experiencing after treatment.
It is important to be open and honest with your doctor regarding any new or recurring symptoms you may be experiencing.
Have questions about your health? Talk to Dr. Aliabadi
Dr. Aliabadi and her compassionate gynecologic team are experts in women’s health care. When you’re treated by Dr. Aliabadi, you’re guaranteed to feel safe, heard, and well cared for.
We invite you to establish care with Dr. Aliabadi. Please make an appointment online or call us at (844) 863-6700.
The practice of Dr. Thais Aliabadi and the Outpatient Hysterectomy Center is conveniently located for patients throughout Southern California and the Los Angeles area. We are near Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, Santa Monica, West Los Angeles, Culver City, Hollywood, Venice, Marina del Rey, Malibu, Manhattan Beach, and Downtown Los Angeles.
Supported by her warm professional team, Dr. Aliabadi treats women through all phases of life and cherishes the special one-on-one relationship between patient and doctor.