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DNA Labs India

ALK/EML4 (NSCLC) Test

DNA Labs India | ISO 9001:2015 Certified

ALK/EML4 (NSCLC) Test

Short Name: ALK/EML4

Also known as: ALK rearrangement test, EML4-ALK fusion test, ALK FISH test

ALK/EML4 (NSCLC) Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹10,500. Uses FISH on Tumor tissue samples. Results in 4-5 days. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

OncologyAdults🏠 Home Collection

✍️ Written By

🩺 Medically Reviewed By

Dr Pasupathy Arumugam

Dr Pasupathy Arumugam

Consultant Pathologist · Reg: 21521

Last reviewed: September 7, 2026

Overview

The purpose of ALK/EML4 testing is to detect the presence of the ALK/EML4 fusion gene in tumor tissue from patients diagnosed with NSCLC. This information helps determine eligibility for targeted therapy, guiding personalized treatment plans to improve outcomes.

Test Code
2934
Price
₹10,500
Sample Type
Tumor tissue
Result Time
4-5 days
Fasting Required
No
Method
FISH
Step 1

Sample Collection

Ensure a doctor's prescription is available. Inform the lab about any medications, prior treatments, or medical conditions.

Method: Biopsy or surgical resection

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

Tumor tissue sample is collected via biopsy or surgical resection and preserved in FFPE blocks.

Step 3

Report Delivery

Sample is sent to the lab for analysis. Results are typically available in 4-5 days.

Timeline: 4-5 days

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:Obtain a doctor's prescription. Avoid any substances that might interfere with sample quality, as advised by your physician.
2
During the Test:The test involves analyzing tumor tissue samples using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) technology to detect ALK/EML4 fusion.
3
After the Test:Results will be available online or via email/WhatsApp. Discuss findings with your doctor for personalized treatment planning.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

The purpose of ALK/EML4 testing is to detect the presence of the ALK/EML4 fusion gene in tumor tissue from patients diagnosed with NSCLC. This information helps determine eligibility for targeted therapy, guiding personalized treatment plans to improve outcomes.

How to Prepare

  • Collect tumor tissue via biopsy or surgical procedure
  • Preserve sample in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) blocks
  • Label sample correctly with patient details
  • Transport at ambient temperature

Doctor's Notes

Reviewed by — MBBS, MD (Pathology) · Reg. No. 21521

"ALK/EML4 testing is essential for identifying patients with NSCLC who may benefit from targeted therapies like crizotinib, improving treatment outcomes and survival rates."

Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026

Test Parameters & Specifications

Sample TypeTumor tissue
ContainerFormalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) block
Collection MethodBiopsy or surgical resection

Sample Stability

FFPE blocks are stable at room temperature for years
Fresh tissue should be processed and fixed immediately
Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • Non-tumor tissue sample
  • Inadequate sample size or quality
  • Improperly preserved or labeled sample

Understanding Your Results

Results indicate the presence or absence of the ALK/EML4 fusion gene, which is critical for guiding targeted therapy decisions in NSCLC patients.
📊

Positive

ALK/EML4 fusion detected. Patient may benefit from ALK inhibitor therapy such as crizotinib.

📊

Negative

No ALK/EML4 fusion detected. Consider other molecular tests for alternative targeted therapies.

⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

Consult your oncologist immediately upon receiving results to discuss treatment options, especially if positive for ALK/EML4 fusion.

Limitations

  • ⚠Only detects ALK/EML4 fusion, not other ALK rearrangements
  • ⚠False negatives possible due to tumor heterogeneity
  • ⚠Requires adequate tumor tissue for accurate results

Risks & Considerations

  • ●Biopsy procedure risks: bleeding, infection, or pain at the collection site
  • ●Minimal risk from the test itself, as it involves tissue analysis

Interfering Factors

  • ●Poor tissue quality or insufficient sample
  • ●Previous treatments affecting DNA integrity
  • ●Improper sample preservation

Frequently Asked Questions

What is ALK/EML4 testing?
ALK/EML4 testing detects the presence of the ALK/EML4 fusion gene in tumor tissue, which is common in a subset of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients and guides targeted therapy.
Why is ALK/EML4 testing important for NSCLC?
It identifies patients who may benefit from targeted therapies like crizotinib, improving treatment outcomes and survival rates.
What is the cost of ALK/EML4 testing at DNA Labs India?
The cost is INR 10,500, which includes home sample collection across India.
How is the ALK/EML4 test performed?
The test uses fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) to analyze tumor tissue samples for the ALK/EML4 fusion gene.
What sample is required for the test?
A tumor tissue sample, typically collected via biopsy or surgery and preserved as a formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) block.
Is fasting required before the test?
No, fasting is not required for ALK/EML4 testing.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 4-5 days after sample collection.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result indicates the presence of ALK/EML4 fusion, suggesting eligibility for targeted therapy with ALK inhibitors.
What does a negative result mean?
A negative result means no ALK/EML4 fusion was detected; other molecular tests may be recommended.
Are there any risks associated with the test?
The test itself has minimal risks, but the biopsy procedure may involve risks like bleeding or infection.
Is home sample collection available?
Yes, DNA Labs India offers free home sample collection for online bookings across many cities in India.
Do I need a doctor's prescription for this test?
Yes, a doctor's prescription is required, except for surgery, pregnancy cases, or travel abroad planning.
Worried about the process? Our certified phlebotomists collect thousands of samples every month across India. The process takes under 5 minutes and is virtually painless. Questions? Message us on WhatsApp — we're here 7 days a week.

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For Hospitals & Clinics

Reference Laboratory Services

We serve as a reference laboratory for hospitals and clinics across India. Send samples from your facility with same-day pickup, priority processing, and results delivered through our online portal. Competitive institutional pricing available.

LIMS Integration

Your Data Privacy

Your medical data is protected under Indian law.

✓ Stored in India: All patient records are stored on servers located in India. No data is transferred outside the country.

✓ DPDP Act Compliant: Under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2023, you can request deletion of your records at any time by contacting support.

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