Fallopian tube cancer
Fallopian tube cancer is a cancer that starts in the fallopian tubes. These connect the ovaries to the womb.
Doctors think that the most common type of ovarian cancer usually starts in the end of the fallopian tube, rather than the ovary. So they might sometimes call it fallopian tube or tubo ovarian cancer.
The fallopian tubes
The fallopian tubes link the ovaries to the womb. During a woman’s childbearing years, the ovaries produce an egg each month. The egg travels through the fallopian tubes to the womb. A baby will begin to develop in the womb if the egg is fertilised by a sperm.
What is fallopian tube cancer?
Fallopian tube cancer usually starts at the very end of the fallopian tube where it joins the ovary. This part is called the fimbriae. It can sometimes be difficult for doctors to tell the difference between fallopian tube and ovarian cancer.
Doctors classify your cancer as fallopian tube cancer if:
- the cancer is in the fallopian tube, even if it is also in the ovary
- they find precancerous cells on the inside surface of the fallopian tube - these are called STIC lesions (serous tubal intraepithelial carcinomas)
Fallopian tube cancer is a type of ovarian cancer called high grade serous cancer.
Symptoms of fallopian tube cancer
The symptoms of fallopian tube cancer can be very unclear and difficult to spot. They include:
- a swollen tummy (abdomen)
- abdominal pain
- feeling bloated
- constipation or diarrhoea
- feeling or being sick
- loss of appetite
- urinary symptoms such as needing to pee more often or you need to pee urgently
The symptoms of fallopian tube cancer are very similar to the symptoms of ovarian cancer.
Tests to diagnose fallopian tube cancer
You might have the following tests to diagnose fallopian tube cancer. These are the same as the tests you might have for ovarian cancer. They include:
- pelvic examination
- blood tests
- ultrasound scan
- CT scan
- MRI scan
- laparotomy
Stages of fallopian tube cancer
The stage of a cancer shows how big it is and whether it has spread. This helps doctors to decide which treatment you need.
Doctors use the International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) staging system to stage cancers in the:
- ovaries
- fallopian tubes
- peritoneum
There are four stages, numbered 1 to 4. Stage 1 is the earliest stage and stage 4 is the most advanced stage.
Treatment for fallopian tube cancer
Doctors treat fallopian tube cancer in the same way as ovarian cancer. The treatments include:
- surgery
- chemotherapy
- targeted cancer drugs
- hormone therapy
- radiotherapy
- treatment to help with symptoms
Research into fallopian tube cancer
Researchers around the world are looking at better ways to diagnose and treat cancers in the ovary, fallopian tube and peritoneum.
Go to Cancer Research UK’s clinical trials database to read about trials for PPC, ovarian and fallopian tube cancer in the UK. The trial summary includes information about who can take part in the trial. You need to talk to your specialist if there are any trials that you think you might be able to take part in.
Coping
Coping with cancer can be difficult, both practically and emotionally. Your healthcare team will help support you.
Being well informed about your condition and its treatment can help you to make decisions and cope with what happens.
If you have questions, you can call the Cancer Research UK nurses for free on 0808 800 4040, 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.
Cancer Research UK’s online forum is a place for anyone affected by cancer. You can share experiences, stories and information with other people who know what you are going through.
