ALK-positive lung cancer

ALK-positive lung cancer is a type of non-small cell lung cancer caused by a genetic change called an ALK gene rearrangement. This mutation leads to the production of an abnormal protein that promotes cancer cell growth. It accounts for about 3-7% of lung cancers, often affecting non-smokers or light smokers, typically younger patients. Targeted therapies called ALK inhibitors can specifically block this protein, often resulting in better treatment responses and improved outcomes compared to standard chemotherapy. Accurate testing for the ALK mutation is essential to identify eligible patients for these targeted treatments.