The fallopian tube is a part of a woman’s reproductive organs that originates in the uterus. In terms of location, this part is located in the abdominal cavity one side is connected to the ovary the other is connected to the uterus. As the tumor grows, it will squeeze into the tube, stretching and causing pain. Over time, the Fallopian tube cancer may spread throughout the pelvis and abdomen.
The main function of the fallopian tube is to facilitate the transport of sperm to the egg. Next is to facilitate the fertilization of the egg into the uterus. Unlike sperm, eggs will not be able to move by themselves. After fertilization, the eggs are pushed by the small tentacles at the end of the fallopian tube to the uterus and form the fetus.
Fallopian tube cancer is very rare. It is more common when the cancer is passed on to the fallopian tube (usually from the ovary, breast or Fallopian tube) the cancer develops in it. Scientists do not know if environmental and lifestyle factors increase the risk of this cancer. Some researchers think that some women can inherit a trend of disease development. Women who inherit the BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation are at risk of developing fallopian and Fallopian tube cancer. If a woman is diagnosed with small bowel cancer, woman may have mutations in one or both genes and should be tested.
Symptom
Symptoms of fallopian tube cancer may include:
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding, especially after menopause.
- Abdominal pain or feeling of pressure in the abdomen
- Abnormal vaginal discharge (white, clear, or pink).
- Abdominal or pelvic tumor.
Having these symptoms does Not Mean That You have ovarian cancer. These symptoms may be caused by other problems. Any fallopian problems will directly affect the reproductive function of women. Therefore, it is necessary to take the initiative to examine when there are any unusual symptoms.
Harm
Infertility: Causing infertility in women is a serious consequence, the Fallopian tube is the meeting place between sperm and eggs, and the combination enters the uterus to make a nest, when the Fallopian tubes become ill. The infection causes a complete blockage of the fallopian tubes so that sperm cannot meet so that conception cannot occur.
Ectopic pregnancy: If the patient is mild, not completely obstructed, the narrowing of the fallopian tube affects the transport function so that the egg after conception cannot move to the uterus. This is a dangerous phenomenon to a woman’s life and even the dangers.
Diagnose
Because fallopian cancer is rare, your doctor may suspect another gynecological problem. He or she can assess the risk of gynecological diseases, ovarian tumors or endometrial cancer. (Endometrial cancer affects the uterus). These conditions have symptoms similar to fallopian tube cancer and they are more common.
Fallopian tube cancer should be considered when a woman has vaginal bleeding or abnormal bleeding and has a positive Pap test, but there is no evidence of cervical or endometrial cancer.
If the blood test for CA-125 is abnormally high, it will aid in the diagnosis of fallopian tube cancer. (CA-125 is a tumor that is secreted in the blood by certain types of cancers in the female gonads). However, it does not prove that a woman has this cancer. CA-125 may be elevated for other reasons.
A doctor may suspect fallopian cancer if they feel a lump during a pelvic exam. Ultrasound or computerized tomography may show abnormal growth in the area of the tube. Women often know they have cancer when a fallopian tube is removed to treat another problem. Doctors detect cancer when they examine it in the laboratory. If you are diagnosed with fallopian cancer, consider testing for BRCA gene mutations. If you have these mutations, you should be screened for breast and ovarian cancer. You should also consider genetic counseling. Fallopian cancer continues to grow until it is removed. Without surgery, it can spread to other organs.
Prevent
At the present time, there is no way to prevent fallopian cancer. Because this is a rare disease, the risk factors have not been identified. Like ovarian and breast cancer, women with BRCA mutations are at a higher risk of developing this cancer. The woman should still have a healthy lifestyle, eat regularly, sports. This also partially limits cancer.
Treatment
Treatment of fallopian cancer may include surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation. The extent of surgery depends on how far the tumor has spread. If the tumor is contained in a fallopian tube, the surgeon removes the fallopian tubes, ovaries, and uterus. This procedure is called hysterectomy.
If the tumor has spread beyond the tube, the pelvic lymph nodes and other tissues may need to be removed. Blood levels of CA-125 are assessed. After surgery, some doctors recommend radiation therapy. Patients may also receive chemotherapy. Chemotherapy drugs are the similar a parts to those to used to treat ovarian cancer.
In addition, newer drugs may be specifically targeted at cancer cells in women with BRCA mutations. After the medical treatments, the blood levels of CA-125 are visibly checked regularly. This can help doctors determine whether the cancer remains or if the cancer has returned? Call your doctor if you have unusual or persistent or severe vaginal or intestinal or pelvic pain, or unusual vaginal discharge. If you have started menopause, call your doctor right away if you notice vaginal bleeding or pink bleeding.
Forecast
Does the outlook depend on how much cancer has increased? If the cancer is confined to the inner lining of the fallopian tube, the prognosis is good. However, if the cancer has invaded the fallopian tube wall or spread to the outer surface, the prognosis is not favorable.
What support can we give for Fallopian Tube Cancer?
Fallopian Tube Cancer is a rare cancer, meaning it is not as well known as other forms of cancer. Without a Ribbon is an Australian organisation that provides support for individuals who suffer from rare cancers. We provide a designated platform for Warriors to obtain information specific to their Rare Cancer. We also provide annual opportunities for our Warriors to meet and learn from each other. If you suffer from rare cancer such as Fallopian Tube Cancer, we can help and support you through your journey thanks to the generous donations we receive. Click the link below to sign up and become a Warrior today!
You can help us with your donation:
Without a Ribbon is a charity that works hard to aid those who suffer from rare cancers. You can help our cause in a variety of ways:
Donations — Without a Ribbon is grateful when we receive every donation. Giving to Without a Ribbon helps us to provide ongoing support, organise the annual gathering and subsidise the costs of our Warriors attending these conferences.
Sponsorship — If you wish to sponsor our charity, please contact us using this form.
Volunteering — We are always looking for volunteers to help with different aspects of running our charity. So, if you are looking for volunteer work, please feel free to contact us.
