Biomarkers
ALK Fusion
Also known as: ALK rearrangement, ALK-positive, EML4-ALK fusion
Definition
A chromosomal rearrangement creating an abnormal ALK gene fusion, druggable with ALK inhibitors.
Detailed Explanation
ALK rearrangements (most commonly EML4-ALK) occur in 3-5% of NSCLC, typically in younger, non-smoking patients. Also found in some lymphomas and neuroblastomas. Highly responsive to ALK inhibitors with multiple generations: crizotinib (1st-gen), alectinib/ceritinib/brigatinib (2nd-gen), lorlatinib (3rd-gen). Testing by FISH, IHC, or NGS.