Next-Generation Sequencing and Immunohistochemistry as Future Gold Standard of ALK Testing in Lung Cancer?

Abstract

A recent study examined the use of fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), immunohistochemistry (IHC), and next-generation sequencing (NGS) for the detection of EML4-ALK rearrangement in lung cancer. This letter suggests that although NGS offers an opportunity to obtain additional data concerning the molecular mechanisms of cancer and to target oncogenic pathways, it should be considered a supplementary test associated with FISH and IHC combined ALK testing rather than as the new gold standard method.