Fallopian tube cancer is also called tubal cancer. Just as the name suggests, it appears in the Fallopian tube that creates the link between the uterus and the ovaries.
The truth is that the condition is quite rare, and it represents only 1-2% of the gynecological cancers.
There have been only 1,500-2000 cases reported and there are 300-400 women diagnosed having the condition in the U. S. on a yearly basis.
What to know about the cancer of the Fallopian tube?
Usually the condition appears among women of 50-60 years old, but it could appear at just any age. In the majority of the cases it affects the white women who had no children or only few kids.
Since there are so few cases reported, there is very little that the specialists know about the causes of the condition.
Nonetheless the researchers suspect that genetics have a word to say when it comes to the cancer of the Fallopian tube.
There is some evidence suggesting that those women who have got genes increasing the risks of ovarian and breast cancer are more likely to develop Fallopian tube cancer.
Symptoms
When it comes to the symptoms of this cancer, these might be just like the symptoms of other gynecological conditions. The most common symptoms include vaginal bleeding that is not normal, especially after the onset of menopause. The patients having cancer of the Fallopian tube could also experience a painful feeling or some abdominal pressure.
In case of this condition the vaginal discharge could be clear, white or pinkish. In case the patient goes to see a doctor, he or she may find a mass in the pelvic area that is present in the majority of the cases.
Diagnosis of Fallopian tube cancer
As it has been mentioned, the condition is relatively rare, and since it can be mistaken for other conditions, it is difficult for the specialists to diagnose it. Even more, there are some women who learn that they had the condition only when the tube has been extracted during surgery because of another condition.
Still, there have been some tests developed to detect the cancer of the Fallopian tube. The doctor will start with asking you about the symptoms that you experience and then you will have to answer questions regarding your medical history. Naturally you will also have a physical exam.
Some other tests meant to detect Fallopian tube cancer include pelvic exam. During this exam the doctor will feel your uterus, ovaries, vagina, Fallopian tubes, rectum and bladder to find any possible abnormalities.
CA125 Test actually is a blood test which is meant to show the levels of blood protein called CA125. This is one of the tumor markers in case of the cancer of the Fallopian tube. About 85% of the women affected by the condition have an increased blood protein level.
In case you suspect that you have Fallopian tube cancer, you should know that the chances are very small for you to have it and only a doctor examination can confirm it.
