ALK fusion genes
• Found in around 5% of NSCLC
• Encountered more frequently in never smokers, the
adenocarcinoma subtype, and in younger patients
• NSCLC patients with ALK rearrangement have improved
OS after radiotherapy for brain metastases compared
with EGFR or KRAS mutations
=> Subsequent receipt of targeted therapy is associated
with additional improvement in OS
Shaw et al. J Clin Oncol 2009
Mak et al. Neuro Oncol 2015
Shaw et al. New Engl J Med 2013
•
Crizotinib
:
first approved ALK inhibitor