Fallopian tube cancer may spread by direct extension, by peritoneal seeding, or through the lymphatics. Symptoms, Signs, and Diagnosis Most patients present with an adnexal mass or vague abdominal or pelvic complaints, such as abdominal discomfort, bloating, or pain. Diagnosis and treatment are surgical. The treatment of choice consists of exploratory laparotomy, total abdominal hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, and surgical staging, which includes washings from the pelvis, abdominal gutters, and diaphragmatic recesses. Multiple pelvic and abdominal peritoneal biopsies, omentectomy, and pelvic and para-aortic lymph node dissection should also be performed.
Cytoreductive surgery is indicated for advanced-stage disease.
Postoperative therapy, identical to that for ovarian cancer, is usually necessary. External beam radiation therapy to the pelvis and abdomen is useful in selected patients. All rights reserved.