Primary fallopian tube carcinoma: review of MR imaging findings

OBJECTIVES: To review the epidemiological and clinical features of primary fallopian tube carcinoma (PFTC), and to illustrate the spectrum of MRI findings, with pathological confirmation. METHODS: This article reviews the relevant literature on the epidemiological, clinical, and imaging features of primary fallopian tube carcinoma, with pathological confirmation, using illustrations from the authors’ teaching files. RESULTS: Primary fallopian tube carcinoma came under focus over the last few years due to its possible role on the pathogenesis of high-grade serous epithelial ovarian and peritoneal cancers. Typical symptoms, together with the presence of some of the most characteristic MRI signs, such as a “sausage-shaped” pelvic mass, hydrosalpinx, and hydrometra, may signal the presence of primary fallopian cancer, and allow the radiologist to report it as a differential diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS: Primary fallopian tube carcinoma has a constellation of clinical symptoms and magnetic resonance imaging features, which may be diagnostic. Although these findings are not present together in the majority of cases, radiologists who are aware of them may include the diagnosis of primary fallopian tube cancer in their report more frequently and with more confidence. TEACHING POINTS: • PFTC may be more frequent than previously thought • PFTC has specific clinical and MRI characteristics • Knowledge of typical PFTC signs enables its inclusion in the differential diagnosis • PFTC is currently staged under the 2013 FIGO system • PFTC is staged collectively with ovarian and peritoneal neoplasms