Like most cancers, Fallopian Tube Cancer starts when abnormal cells are rapidly produced, causing tumors. Some tumors are harmless, which are known as benign tumors. Cancerous tumors are called malignant, and can be spread to other parts of the body.
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.
Fallopian Tube Cancer and Other Cancers
Fallopian tube cancer is fairly rare. It occurs in about 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 ovaries, causing ovarian cancer.
Types of Fallopian Tube Cancer
Carcinomas can grow from any of the three types of cells that comprise the fallopian tubes.
- Adenocarcinoma – This type of cancer begins in the glands. It is the most common form of fallopian tube cancer.
- Transitional cell carcinoma – This is a cancer of the fallopian tube lining.
- Leiomyosarcoma – This cancer affects the smooth muscle tissue of the fallopian tubes.
Risk Factors for Fallopian Tube Cancer
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:
- Fallopian tube cancer most often occurs in women between the ages of 50-70.
- 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, and recent studies have shown that it may increase the risk of fallopian tube cancer as well.
Preventing Fallopian Tube Cancer
Women at increased risk of developing fallopian tube cancer may wish to talk to their doctor about a salpingo-oophorectomy. In this procedure, the surgeon removes the fallopian tubes and the 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.
Fallopian Tube Cancer Symptoms
The key to a good prognosis for patients with fallopian tube cancer is early detection. 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
- Pelvic pain or cramping
- Feeling of pressure in the abdomen
- A mass or lump in the pelvis
Diagnosing Fallopian Tube Cancer
If you are experiencing symptoms, visit your gynecologist right away. Your gynecologist will provide you with a pelvic exam and order imaging and blood tests to make a diagnosis. Some tests that you may receive include:
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Blood/CA-125 array tests
Your doctor will check your blood 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
Your doctor may conduct a transvaginal ultrasound to detect a mass in the fallopian tubes. In this procedure, a slender wand is inserted into the vagina – the wand emits ultrasonic waves to create a picture of the pelvic organs.
Genetic testing
A genetic specialist can examine your DNA to detect a mutation of the BRCA1 gene. Detecting this mutation can help your doctors understand more about your risk for fallopian tube cancer and related cancers.
CAT (Computer Tomography) scan
This is an imaging technology that uses X-rays to create a 3D projection of the inside of your body.
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
This technology can create detailed images of your internal organs using magnetic waves.
Fallopian Tube Cancer Treatment
If your gynecologist believes you have fallopian tube cancer, you will be referred to an oncologist for further evaluation and treatment. Your oncologist will conduct tests to determine the severity of your condition in a process called staging. Your doctor will then discuss your treatment options and help you decide the best course of action for you.
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If you believe you are experiencing symptoms of, or suffering from Fallopian Tube Cancer, or have questions about it, please see your doctor.
We also invite you to establish care with Dr. Aliabadi. Please click here to make an appointment or call us at (844) 863- 6700.