Once thought to be rare, research studies have revealed new information about fallopian tube cancer. It is now known that most ovarian cancers actually begin in a fallopian tube before spreading to the ovaries. Most cancers that start in the fallopian tube are epithelial and begin in the distal (outer) end of the tube, where eggs released from the ovary enter to be fertilized.
Ovarian cancer is widely used in reference to cancers that begin in the cells in the ovary, fallopian tube and peritoneum — a tissue that lines the abdomen and most of the abdominal organs.
Although fallopian tube cancer and ovarian cancer share symptoms and treatments, fallopian tube cancer is its own disease, with two very rare forms:
Knowing your risk factors and discussing them with your doctor may help you make more informed lifestyle and healthcare choices. The following factors may raise a woman’s risk of developing fallopian tube cancer:
Early detection is a key advantage when facing any type of cancer. But in cases of fallopian tube cancer, early detection can be very difficult, since the symptoms can be vague until the disease is advanced. Adding to this challenge is the fact that no current screening method can detect abnormalities until cancer is suspected. However, the following exams and advanced imaging tests are used to diagnose fallopian tube cancer and determine its stage:
It is possible that women with fallopian tube cancer show no symptoms. Very often, patients don’t experience symptoms until a tumor is large or in later stages of the disease. In addition, many signs are non-specific and may be caused by a noncancerous medical condition. Being vigilant, especially if you are in a high-risk group, is your best chance to recognize the symptoms of this cancer:
If you are diagnosed with fallopian tube cancer, there are several crucial factors to consider regarding treatment. Your doctor will recommend the most effective therapy based on the type and stage of cancer, possible side effects and your ability to cope with those side effects.
For you, treatments can impact your sexual health and fertility. If you’re planning to have children in the future, take all the time you need to ask every question that comes to mind. Your RCCA doctor will help you understand the advantages and risks so you can make the right choice for you. Treatments for fallopian tube cancer are often combined or used in sequence and include:
When it comes to helping you beat fallopian tube cancer, RCCA is a true leader. We proudly offer vast yet accessible resources and an extensive network of highly skilled surgeons and multidisciplinary teams to give you constant support.
We also regularly participate in clinical trials. These research studies test new approaches to cancer therapies for safety and efficacy. Clinical trials also give patients access to new drugs, new combinations of therapies, or new doses of standard drugs or other treatments. Should you decide to participate, your RCCA doctor will help you understand every aspect of your clinical trial.
For more information, or to schedule an appointment, call (844) 346-7222. You can also schedule an appointment by calling the RCCA location nearest you.
This passion and dedication was once again recognized when 16 doctors from RCCA were named 2023 Top Cancer Doctors as selected by health care research and information company Castle Connolly.
As medicine continues to evolve, those who have been diagnosed with cancer have more treatment options than ever. But after learning their diagnosis, patients must
Regional Cancer Care Associates’ expert oncologists and hematologists bring the latest cancer therapies, treatment strategies and clinical trials to convenience, community-based care centers near your home.
When standard cancer treatments aren’t providing the results you want, clinical trials may offer hope. Our physicians use clinical trials to study new treatments, helping transform cancer care for the better. You can enroll in a clinical trial to try groundbreaking treatment plans at zero cost to you.
Regional Cancer Care Associates is one of fewer than 200 medical practices in the country selected to participate in the Oncology Care Model (OCM); a recent Medicare initiative aimed at improving care coordination and access to and quality of care for Medicare beneficiaries undergoing chemotherapy treatment.
