What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're diagnosed with lung cancer and your care team is trying to figure out whether a specific gene change, called an EML4-ALK fusion, is driving your tumor's growth. Knowing whether this fusion is present helps determine if targeted ALK-inhibitor medications could work for your specific cancer. It's typically used after a cancer diagnosis, not as a general screening test.

What's included in this test?

This test looks for a specific genetic fusion between the EML4 and ALK genes in tumor tissue, using a PCR-based method that scans across the EML4 gene to catch multiple possible fusion variants. Detecting this fusion matters because it identifies patients whose cancer may respond to targeted ALK-inhibitor drugs, which work very differently from standard chemotherapy.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will be available in your account, with an explanation of what a positive or negative finding means. If the test detects the EML4-ALK fusion, a next step is usually discussing targeted ALK-inhibitor treatment options; if it's negative, other tumor markers or treatment paths may be considered. A downloadable copy of the full lab report is available in your account at any time, and you can track any repeat testing over time using the trends feature. Because this result affects treatment decisions, act on it promptly.

How can I naturally support my body during cancer treatment?

While no natural remedy replaces targeted cancer treatment, supporting your body with balanced nutrition, adequate protein, regular gentle movement, and good sleep can help you tolerate treatment better. Staying hydrated and managing stress through relaxation techniques or light activity may also help with overall well-being during this time. Always pair these habits with the treatment plan recommended for your specific diagnosis.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days of your sample being processed. Because this test uses a specialized PCR method to scan the EML4 gene, it takes a bit longer than routine blood work. You'll be notified as soon as your results are posted to your account.

Who should consider this test?

This test is meant for people who have already been diagnosed with lung cancer, particularly non-small cell lung cancer, and need more information about the tumor's genetic makeup. It's especially relevant if targeted therapy is being considered as a treatment option. It is not a general cancer screening test for the public.

What does a positive EML4-ALK result mean?

A positive result means your tumor cells carry the EML4-ALK gene fusion, which is essentially a genetic error that can drive cancer cell growth. The good news is that this specific fusion is a well-known target for a class of drugs called ALK inhibitors, which are often effective for tumors with this change. This finding usually opens the door to targeted treatment options.

What does a negative result mean?

A negative result means the EML4-ALK fusion was not detected in the sample tested. This doesn't rule out cancer or other treatable genetic changes — it simply means ALK-inhibitor drugs targeting this specific fusion likely won't be effective for your tumor. Other genetic markers may still be worth exploring for treatment planning.

What causes the EML4-ALK fusion to form?

This fusion happens because of a random error in how a piece of chromosome 2 gets rearranged, causing two separate genes (EML4 and ALK) to fuse together and create an abnormal, overactive protein. It's not caused by lifestyle, diet, or something a person did — it's a spontaneous genetic mutation found in tumor tissue. It occurs in a subset of lung cancers, more often in nonsmokers or light smokers.

How often should I retest?

This test isn't part of routine or repeat screening — it's usually done once at diagnosis or when treatment planning changes. Retesting might be considered if your tumor tissue changes significantly or if resistance to targeted therapy develops later on. Your treatment timeline will guide whether repeat genetic testing makes sense.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

EML4-ALK Gene Fusion Test - Targeted Cancer Therapy

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

[email protected]

EML4-ALK Gene Fusion Test for Lung Cancer Treatment

EML4 ALK Gene Fusion, PCR

Prescription & all lab fees included

Doctor's guidance included

Fast & convenient

Prescription & all lab fees included

Doctor's guidance included

Fast & convenient

What's this test for?

What's included in this test?

What happens after I get my results?

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EML4-ALK Gene Fusion Test for Lung Cancer Treatment

Prescription & all lab fees included

Doctor's guidance included

Fast & convenient

1,000,000+ blood tests later, here's what our customers say