Treatment for ALK-mutated non-small-cell lung cancer: a new miracle in the research race

ABSTRACT

The discovery of anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) rearrangements in a subset of patients with nonsmall- cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and its potential blockage by specific inhibitors such as crizotinib has been one of the latest advances in the treatment of this disease. In this article, we will review the most important clinical aspects of ALK alterations in NSCLC patients and the pending questions to answer the most effective means of diagnosing ALK-rearranged NSCLC, and efficacy, toxicity profile and potential mechanisms of resistance to crizotinib (AU)