Immunohistochemistry ALK-1 Test
Short Name: IHC ALK-1 Test
Also known as: ALK-1 Immunohistochemistry, IHC for ALK-1 Protein
Immunohistochemistry ALK-1 Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹3,000. Uses Immunohistochemistry on Tumor tissue in 10% Formal-saline or Formalin fixed paraffin embedded block samples. Results in Results are typically ready in 10 days from sample receipt.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr SHAILAJA RAGHUNATH MURDESHWAR
Consultant Physician · Reg: 8052
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The purpose of the Immunohistochemistry ALK-1 Test is to identify the presence and level of ALK-1 protein expression in tumor tissues, aiding in the diagnosis of ALK-positive cancers and informing targeted treatment strategies.
- Test Code
- 26
- Price
- ₹3,000
- Sample Type
- Tumor tissue in 10% Formal-saline or Formalin fixed paraffin embedded block
- Result Time
- Results are typically ready in 10 days from sample receipt.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Immunohistochemistry
Sample Collection
Ensure the biopsy is performed by a qualified medical professional. Provide all necessary clinical information and prior test reports.
Method: Biopsy collection
Laboratory Analysis
The tissue sample should be collected via biopsy and immediately placed in the appropriate fixative (10% formal-saline or formalin).
Report Delivery
Label the sample correctly and transport it to the laboratory at room temperature. Ensure the histopathology report accompanies the sample.
Timeline: Results are typically ready in 10 days from sample receipt.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of the Immunohistochemistry ALK-1 Test is to identify the presence and level of ALK-1 protein expression in tumor tissues, aiding in the diagnosis of ALK-positive cancers and informing targeted treatment strategies.
How to Prepare
- Obtain tumor tissue through biopsy or surgical resection.
- Fix the tissue in 10% formal-saline or embed in paraffin.
- Submit with a copy of the histopathology report, biopsy site, and clinical history.
- Ship at room temperature to the laboratory.
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr SHAILAJA RAGHUNATH MURDESHWAR — MBBS, MD (General Medicine) · Reg. No. 8052
"The IHC ALK-1 test is essential for identifying patients with ALK-rearranged cancers who may benefit from targeted kinase inhibitors, improving treatment outcomes."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Inadequate tissue sample for analysis
- Improperly fixed or processed tissue
- Missing clinical information or histopathology report
- Contaminated or degraded samples
Understanding Your Results
Positive
ALK-1 protein is overexpressed in the tumor, indicating a likely ALK-positive cancer that may respond to targeted therapies such as ALK inhibitors.
Action: Consult an oncologist for further evaluation and treatment planning.
Negative
No significant ALK-1 overexpression is detected. However, if clinical suspicion remains high, confirmatory tests like FISH may be recommended.
Action: Discuss with your physician regarding next steps and alternative diagnoses.
Consult a doctor if you experience symptoms like unexplained weight loss, persistent cough, or swollen lymph nodes, or if you have a diagnosis of cancer where ALK testing is indicated.
Limitations
- ⚠Cannot detect all ALK mutations; may require confirmatory testing like FISH
- ⚠Results may vary based on laboratory techniques and expertise
- ⚠Does not provide information on the specific genetic alteration
- ⚠False negatives possible in cases of low protein expression
Risks & Considerations
- ●The test itself has no direct risks; risks are associated with the biopsy procedure, such as bleeding or infection.
Interfering Factors
- ●Poor tissue fixation or processing
- ●Sample degradation or contamination
- ●Use of incorrect antibodies or staining protocols
- ●Inadequate tissue sample size
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Immunohistochemistry ALK-1 Test | FISH for ALK Gene Rearrangement | EGFR Mutation Test | Next-Generation Sequencing Panel |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Immunohistochemistry ALK-1 Test | FISH directly detects genetic translocations, while IHC detects protein expression. FISH is often used as a confirmatory test. | Tests for different genetic alterations in cancer; ALK and EGFR are distinct biomarkers for targeted therapy. | Provides a comprehensive genetic profile but may be more costly and time-consuming than single IHC tests. |
Frequently Asked Questions
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