Fallopian Cancer

Fallopian tube cancer is a rare type of gynecological cancer that affects less than 2 percent of women worldwide. Although, the prevalence of fallopian tube cancer is low, the complications that can arise from this cancer if not detected early are disastrousand can cause female infertility. Since, some women may not be aware of the signs and symptoms of fallopian cancer, they may never seek treatment for their illness until it's too late. Making it extremely important, for all women, to become aware of the signs of fallopian cancer.

What is Fallopian Cancer?

Fallopian cancer affects the cells in a woman's fallopian tubes. When these cells divide rapidly, tumors develop in the fallopian tube. The fallopian tube acts as a passage for the eggs in the ovaries to travel to he uterus.  When tumors grow in the fallopian tube, it can cause intense pain and irregular bleeding in the woman. If the tumors are not detected and treated they can spread throughout the body. However, it's more likely that the cancer to metastasize or spread from other parts of the body, such as the ovaries or endometrium. 

Signs and Symptoms

Some common symptoms of fallopian cancer include:

• Irregular vaginal bleeding, particularly after menopause
• Abnormal pelvic or abdominal pain
• Abnormal discharge (white, clear, or pinkish)
• Presence of a pelvic mass  (found in up to two-thirds of patients)

If you experience any of these symptoms or notice other irregularities, make an appointment with your doctor or health care provider to treat the symptoms. Since the symptoms of fallopian cancer may resemble those caused by other gynecological problems.

Fallopian Cancer: Who's At Risk?

Fallopian cancer usually affects women between the ages of 50 and 60, although other age groups can develop this cancer. Fallopian cancer is also more common in Caucasian women who have few kids or no kids. Women who have a history of unexplained fertility or previous inflammation in their fallopian tubes are also at a higher risk of developing fallopian cancer. Genetics may also influence your risk of getting this cancer, because research shows that women who inherited the BRCA1 gene, that's seen in breast cancer and ovarian cancer patients may also be at a higher risk of developing fallopian cancer.

To find out the diagnosis and treatment options available for fallopian cancer visit our Fallopian Cancer: Diagnosis and Treatment article.