Alk (eml4-alk) Fish

What is ALK (EML4-ALK) by FISH test?

The ALK (EML4-ALK) by FISH test is a molecular diagnostic test used to detect a specific gene rearrangement in cancer cells — particularly in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Why consider ALK (EML4-ALK) FISH test?

• The ALK (EML4-ALK) FISH test is a crucial molecular diagnostic tool in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It detects a specific genetic alteration — the ALK gene rearrangement — which helps identify patients who may benefit from targeted therapy with ALK inhibitors.
• ALK gene rearrangements (especially EML4-ALK fusion) are oncogenic drivers in about 3–7% of NSCLC cases (mostly adenocarcinoma). A positive ALK FISH result means the patient is eligible for targeted treatment with ALK inhibitors.
• ALK-positive NSCLC patients respond very well to ALK inhibitors, with Higher response rates, Longer progression-free survival, Better quality of life and Fewer side effects than chemotherapy

Who should get tested for ALK (EML4-ALK) by FISH test?

This test should be performed on patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who are being evaluated for targeted treatments. It assists oncologists in determining whether ALK inhibitor therapies are appropriate.

More Information

OTHER NAMES: ALK break-apart FISH (tissue), EML4-ALK FISH (tissue), ALK rearrangement by FISH (FFPE), ALK (2p23) gene rearrangement FISH (tissue), ALK fusion tissue (FISH)

ALK (EML4-ALK) refers to a gene fusion in which portions of the EML4 gene fuse with the ALK gene, creating a constitutively active tyrosine kinase driver found in a subset of non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC), typically lung adenocarcinoma. This fusion promotes tumor growth via activation of downstream signaling pathways (RAS/ERK, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, STAT3) and is targetable with multiple generations of ALK tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) that have significantly improved outcomes in ALK-positive NSCLC