Fallopian tubes are the small tubes on each side of the uterus that link the ovaries to the uterus. Fallopian tube cancer begins when cells in one or both fallopian tubes change and grow uncontrollably, forming a mass called a tumor, states Cancer.net. Signs and symptoms of fallopian tube cancer include abdominal bloating and discomfort and a watery or blood tinged vaginal discharge. In advanced cases a woman may develop ascites (fluid in the abdominal cavity). Some treatment options for fallopian tube cancer exist that you should become aware of. You and your physician will determine your treatment plan based on the stage of your cancer as well as your overall health.
Surgery
According to Merck, treatment almost always consists of removal of the uterus (hysterectomy) and removal of the ovaries and fallopian tubes (salpingo-oophorectomy), adjacent lymph nodes and surrounding tissues. Removed lymph nodes are then tested to help predict if cancer has begun to spread to other parts of the body (metastasize). Fallopian tube cancer spreads in much the same way as ovarian cancer: usually directly to the surrounding area or through the lymphatic system, eventually appearing in distant parts of the body, states Merck. This type of surgery may be done laparoscopically or through an abdominal incision.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy consists of a variety of potent medications that destroy cancer cells to keep them from dividing. Carboplatin and paclitaxel are common chemotherapeutic agents used in the treatment of fallopian tube cancer. Chemotherapy can be given intravenously (through an IV) or by mouth in the form of a pill. Side effects of chemotherapy include fatigue, nausea and vomiting, hair loss, neuropathy, infertility, anemia and decreased appetite. Maintaning optimal nutritional status during chemotherapy proves essential to keeping up your strength and energy. Ask your oncologist to recommend a nutritionist prior to initiating treatment.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy also treats fallopian tube cancer. Radiation therapy uses high beam x-rays to kill and destroy cancer cells. Oncologists sometimes prescribe radiation prior to surgery to help shrink an existing tumor. Two ways of prescribing radiation therapy exist to treat cancer patients. In external beam radiation, a machine outside of the body delivers beams of radiation to the affected area. Radiation may also be given internally through the implantation of radioactive wires or seeds near the site of concern. Side effects of radiation therapy include mild skin burns and fatigue.
