ALK-positive

ALK-positive refers to cancers, such as certain lung cancers, that have a specific genetic change involving the ALK gene. In these cases, a portion of the ALK gene becomes rearranged, creating a fusion gene that produces abnormal proteins. These proteins can cause cancer cells to grow and divide uncontrollably. Identifying ALK-positive tumors is important because it allows doctors to use targeted therapies that specifically block the activity of these abnormal proteins, improving treatment effectiveness and patient outcomes.