Testing and treatment
From biomarker testing to targeted therapy and clinical trials — an overview in plain language.
Biomarker testing
Biomarker testing — also called molecular testing — looks for specific changes in the tumour cells, including the ALK change. Without that testing, an ALK change goes unnoticed.
It is usually done on tissue from a biopsy, sometimes supplemented by a blood test. Ask your doctor whether this was carried out, which changes were tested for, and what the result means for your treatment plan.
Treatment overview
In ALK-positive lung cancer, targeted medicines known as ALK inhibitors are often used. They act specifically on the ALK change and are usually taken as tablets.
There are several generations of ALK inhibitors. Which one is appropriate for you depends on your situation, previous treatments and the reimbursement conditions in Belgium. Other approaches such as surgery, radiotherapy or chemotherapy may also play a part.
We deliberately do not compare specific medicines or brand names here. That weighing-up is made with your treating physician.
Clinical trials — what they are and where to look
A clinical trial is medical research that tests a new treatment, combination or approach. Taking part is always voluntary and overseen by a medical team. For ALK-positive lung cancer, trials are one of the main ways new targeted therapies reach patients. Whether a particular trial is right for you is a conversation for you and your oncologist — we don't enrol patients or give medical advice.
You can search current trials here:
- ClinicalTrials.gov an international registry of clinical studies (opens in a new tab)
- European Clinical Trial Map (CTIS) search trials in the EU and EEA (opens in a new tab)
Always discuss any trial you find with your treating doctor.
We do not give medical advice. This page explains in general terms how testing, treatment and clinical trials work. What this means for your situation belongs with your treating physician.
You are not alone
Our private Facebook group is open to patients at any stage, to family members and caregivers, and to health professionals who support the ALK+ community. Low-threshold, at your own pace, among people who understand what you are going through.
Become part of our community (opens in a new tab)