Primary carcinoma of the fallopian tube: evidence for activity of cisplatin combination therapy.

The records of 23 patients with confirmed carcinoma of the fallopian tube, treated between 1966 and 1983, were reviewed. Patients ranged in age from 41 to 88 years. A pelvic mass was the most common preoperative finding (61%), followed by abnormal bleeding (43%), and pain (39%). Fifteen patients had stage I or II disease, 8 had Stage III or IV disease. In patients with metastatic disease, involvement of the peritoneal surfaces, bowel, and omentum were noted most often. Lymph nodes were the most common site(s) of recurrent disease. Twelve evaluable patients with measurable disease were treated with cisplatin and cyclophosphamide (PC) +/- doxorubicin (PAC). There were 9 complete and 2 partial responses, a 92% response rate. Incorporation of cisplatin therapy appears to have resulted in improved short-term survival.