What the test looks for
Detection of an ALK gene rearrangement, present in about 3 to 5% of non-small cell lung cancers.
Immunohistochemistry is used for screening; an equivocal result is confirmed by fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH). An ALK rearrangement makes the patient eligible for ALK inhibitors.
Required sample
- FFPE tumour block (block preferred over slides).
- At least 50 assessable tumour cells for FISH.
- Pathology report enclosed.