IHC Marker-ALK-1 Test: Booking, Price, and Results

This test examines a tissue sample to determine whether the ALK protein is expressed in tumour cells and, if so, to what extent. The findings help pathologists classify the tumour and guide decisions about treatment.

The test evaluates the following:

• ALK protein expression — whether the ALK protein is present in tumour cells and in what pattern. Normally, this protein is absent or present in very small amounts in healthy cells.
• ALK gene rearrangements — abnormal fusions of the ALK gene with other genes can cause the protein to be overproduced. This overexpression can make certain tumours sensitive to targeted drugs called ALK inhibitors.

Because this test is performed on tissue rather than blood or urine, the preparation steps differ from a routine blood test. Here is what you need to know before submitting your sample.

Do You Need to Fast?

No fasting is required. This test is performed on a tissue biopsy sample that has already been collected by your doctor. There are no dietary restrictions associated with submitting a tissue block for ALK-1 IHC testing.

Practical Tips Before Your Test

Keep the following in mind before submitting your tissue sample for the IHC Marker-ALK-1 test procedure:

• Bring a detailed clinical history including your symptoms, previous test results, and any relevant pathology reports, as this is required for the test
• Ensure the tissue block is properly preserved in 10% neutral buffered formalin before dispatch
• Avoid the use of zinc-based fixatives, as these can interfere with the staining process and affect result quality
• Confirm with your doctor or the laboratory whether unstained slides are also required alongside the paraffin block
• Note that the tissue block will be returned to you after processing is complete

Step-by-Step Procedure

The IHC Marker-ALK-1 test is performed on tissue that is collected and submitted to the laboratory. Here is what the process typically involves:

1. A biopsy is performed by a physician to obtain tumour tissue. This may have been done earlier as part of your diagnostic workup.
2. The collected tissue is preserved in formalin and embedded in a paraffin block (known as an FFPE tissue block), which is then sent to the laboratory.
3. The laboratory prepares thin sections of the tissue block and mounts them on glass slides.
4. Specific ALK antibodies are applied to the tissue sections. These antibodies bind to the ALK protein if it is present in the tumour cells.
5. A pathologist examines the stained slides under a microscope, looking for the characteristic brown staining pattern that indicates ALK protein expression.
6. A written report is prepared and delivered within 7 days of the laboratory receiving the sample.

Factors That Can Affect Accuracy

The quality of the result depends on several factors. The following points are worth noting:

• Poor tissue fixation or the use of incorrect fixatives can reduce staining quality
• Low tumour cellularity (a small proportion of cancer cells in the sample) may affect interpretation
• Improper storage or handling of the tissue block during transport
• The experience and expertise of the pathologist reviewing the slides
• Insufficient clinical history provided at the time of submission

ALK protein expression is driven by genetic changes within tumour cells and is not directly influenced by lifestyle. However, the following general habits may support overall health:

• Avoid smoking, as it is strongly linked to lung cancer including ALK-positive NSCLC
• Attend regular health check-ups, which may support early detection of abnormal findings
• Discuss any family history of cancer with your doctor, as genetic factors can play a role in certain tumour types