Cancers associated with ALK mutations

ALK mutations are genetic changes involving the ALK gene, which can lead to uncontrolled cell growth. These mutations are associated with certain cancers, most notably a subset of non-small cell lung cancers, where the ALK gene fusions drive tumor development. Rarely, ALK mutations are linked to other cancers such as anaplastic large cell lymphoma, inflammatory myofibroblastic tumors, and some neuroblastomas. Identifying ALK mutations is important because targeted therapies can specifically inhibit the abnormal ALK activity, offering effective treatment options for affected patients.