What is Fallopian Tube Cancer?
Fallopian tube cancer is a rare type of gynecologic cancer that originates in the fallopian tubes, the tubes that connect the ovaries to the uterus. Eggs formed in the ovaries pass through the fallopian tubes to the uterus during ovulation.
Cancers that form in the fallopian tubes can spread to the ovary, which is how some ovarian cancers form. Fallopian tube cancer and ovarian cancer are closely related and are often treated similarly.
There are several different types of fallopian tube cancers, including:
- Papillary serous adenocarcinomas: More than 95 percent of fallopian tube cancers are papillary serous adenocarcinomas. This type of cancer grows from the cells lining the fallopian tubes.
- Primary fallopian tube cancer: Primary fallopian tube cancer is extremely rare, representing about 1 percent of all gynecologic cancers.
- Sarcomas (leiomyosarcomas): Occasionally, tumors called sarcomas (leiomyosarcomas) may form from smooth muscle in the fallopian tubes. Tumors that form on other cells that line the fallopian tubes are called transitional cell carcinomas.
Types
- Primary Fallopian Tube Cancer (PFTC): Starts in the fallopian tubes themselves.
- Secondary Fallopian Tube Cancer: Spreads to the fallopian tubes from other parts of the body, such as the ovaries or endometrium.
Risk Factors
- Genetic Mutations: BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations significantly increase the risk.
- Family History: Family history of breast, ovarian, or fallopian tube cancer.
- Age: Most common in women aged 50-60.
- Reproductive History: Women who have never been pregnant may have a higher risk.
The GW Cancer Center's Gynecological Oncology Program is home to a highly skilled team of experts who specialize in treating fallopian tube cancer, which has a five-year survival rate of up to 95%.
