Fallopian Tube Cancer
What is Fallopian Tube Cancer
Fallopian tube cancer is a rare type of gynecologic cancer that starts in the fallopian tubes (the small tubes that connect the ovaries to the uterus).
It accounts for only 1–2% of all gynecological cancers but is important because sometimes what looks like ovarian cancer actually begins in the fallopian tubes.
Causes & Risk Factors
The exact cause is not fully known, but risks are similar to ovarian cancer:
- Genetic mutations (BRCA1 and BRCA2).
- Family history of ovarian, breast, or fallopian tube cancer.
- Hormonal factors – early menstruation, late menopause, no pregnancies.
- Chronic inflammation or infection of fallopian tubes.
- Infertility or use of fertility drugs (slightly increased risk).
- Age – usually after menopause.
Symptoms
- Fallopian tube cancer is often silent in early stages. When symptoms appear, they may include:
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding or watery discharge (especially after menopause).
- Pelvic or abdominal pain.
- A lump or swelling in the lower abdomen.
- Bloating, feeling full quickly (similar to ovarian cancer).
- Sometimes detected during surgery for other issues.
Diagnosis
- Pelvic examination – may reveal a mass.
- Ultrasound (TVS) or MRI/CT scan.
- CA-125 blood test (may be elevated, but not always specific).
- Definitive diagnosis is usually made during surgery + biopsy.
Staging (FIGO)
- Stage I: Limited to fallopian tubes.
- Stage II: Spread to pelvis (uterus, ovaries).
- Stage III: Spread to abdomen or lymph nodes.
- Stage IV: Spread outside abdomen (liver, lungs).
Treatment
Surgery (main treatment):
- Removal of fallopian tubes + ovaries (salpingo-oophorectomy).
- Often combined with hysterectomy (removal of uterus).
- Lymph node sampling.
- Chemotherapy – usually platinum-based (similar to ovarian cancer).
- Radiotherapy – less common, but may be used for symptom relief.
Prognosis
- Better survival chances if detected early.
- 5-year survival:
- Early stages: ~70–80%.
- Advanced stages: ~20–30%.
Summary
Fallopian tube cancer is a rare cancer that happens in the tubes connecting the ovaries and uterus. It is often silent at first, but later may cause unusual vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, or bloating. Treatment usually involves surgery (removing tubes, ovaries, and sometimes uterus) along with chemotherapy. Early detection gives the best outcome.
