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What Are the Causes of Tumors in Fallopian Tubes?

Fallopian tube tumors are a rare form of cancer that strikes the female reproductive system. Despite the identification of several potential risk factors, researchers do not fully understand the underlying causes for these tumors.

  1. The Facts

    • According to the University of Pennsylvania's Abramson Cancer Center, fallopian tube cancer occurs most frequently in women ages 60 to 64. Caucasian women have a higher rate of incidence than black women.

    Rarity Of Occurrence

    • Only 1,500 to 2,000 cases of fallopian tube tumors have ever been diagnosed in America, according to the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. This infrequent occurrence has hindered the kinds of analysis necessary to determine exactly why they form.

    Potential Risk Factors

    • Potential risk factors include advanced age, family history of fallopian cancer, chronic fallopian tube inflammation or infection, infertility and the presence of BRCA mutations---genetic alterations most commonly associated with breast and ovarian cancer.

    Additional Genetic Risks

    • The presence of gene mutations linked to the development of hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) might also increase risks for fallopian tube cancer.

    Considerations

    • Certain factors may decrease a woman's risk of developing fallopian tube cancer. These include giving birth, breast feeding and use of hormonal contraceptives.

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