ALK1

What is ALK-1 IHC test?

ALK-1 IHC test is a diagnostic test that detects the presence of Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase (ALK) protein in non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) tissue using a specific immunohistochemistry (IHC) method developed by Ventana Medical Systems. This test, which identifies patients with ALK-positive NSCLC, helps determine if they are eligible for treatment with targeted ALK inhibitor medications, such as crizotinib or alectinib.

Why consider ALK-1 IHC test?

ALK-1 IHC testing, especially using the Ventana D5F3 clone, is a standard and essential test in evaluating lung adenocarcinomas for ALK gene rearrangements, which are targetable with specific therapies (like alectinib, crizotinib, etc.).    

Who should get this ALK-1 IHC test ?

ALK-1 immunohistochemistry (IHC) using the Ventana D5F3 clone should be performed in patients with certain types of lung cancer, especially when targeted therapy is being considered.

• All patients with newly diagnosed lung adenocarcinoma regardless of age, smoking history, or stage.
• Patients with poorly differentiated NSCLC without clear subtype on morphology.
• Any patient with stage IIIB/IV NSCLC being considered for systemic therapy.
• Patients who are EGFR-negative, KRAS-negative, ROS1-negative, etc.

More Information about ALK-1 IHC test

Other Names - ALK by IHC, ALK IHC test, ALK for lung cancer, ALK NSCLC test

ALK (Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase) is a receptor tyrosine kinase. In ~3–7% of non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC), especially adenocarcinomas, ALK undergoes gene rearrangements (e.g., EML4-ALK fusion). This rearrangement leads to oncogenic activation (uncontrolled growth).