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Updated: Jul 8, 2026
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Tubal Cytology of the Fallopian Tube as a Promising Tool for Ovarian Cancer Early Detection
Published on: July 25, 2017
Primary fallopian tube carcinoma associated with ovulation induction; a case report
A Deliveliotou1, D Hassiakos, S Fotiou
12nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aretaieion Hospital, University of Athens Medical School, Athens, Greece. kdeliveliotou@hotmail.com
Summary
This case report details a rare instance of primary fallopian tube carcinoma (PFTC) in a woman undergoing ovulation induction. It underscores the need for careful evaluation of adnexal masses in patients using fertility treatments.
Area of Science:
- Gynecologic Oncology
- Reproductive Endocrinology
- Pathology
Background:
- Primary fallopian tube carcinoma (PFTC) is a rare gynecologic malignancy.
- The association between ovulation induction and PFTC has not been previously established.
- Fertility treatments involving gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist and gonadotrophins are common for infertility.
Observation:
- A 38-year-old woman with primary infertility underwent three cycles of ovulation induction.
- Bilateral ovarian cysts were noted, and subsequent laparotomy revealed bilateral adnexal masses.
- Histologic examination confirmed a primary right fallopian tube endometrioid adenocarcinoma and bilateral adnexal endometriosis.
Findings:
- The patient was treated with total abdominal hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, omentectomy, and lymph node sampling.
- Post-operative chemotherapy with paclitaxel and carboplatin was administered without complications.
- The final diagnosis was primary fallopian tube endometrioid adenocarcinoma.
Implications:
- This case highlights a potential, though unproven, association between ovulation induction and PFTC.
- It emphasizes the critical need for thorough evaluation of all adnexal masses in women undergoing fertility treatments.
- Further research may be warranted to explore the relationship between ovarian stimulation and rare gynecologic cancers.
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