metastatic Anaplastic lymphoma kinase-positive Metastatic Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
An Overview of Metastatic Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase-Positive Metastatic Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is one of the most common types of cancers and can metastasize—or spread—to other areas of the body. In some cases, the cells are positive for an enzyme called anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK). This form of NSCLC is known as ALK-positive metastatic NSCLC (mNSCLC).
Metastatic anaplastic lymphoma kinase-positive (ALK+) mNSCLC is an aggressive, rapidly progressing cancer that affects the lungs and other organs. Treatment options for ALK+ mNSCLC include aggressive chemotherapy, targeted treatments, immunotherapy, or a combination of these.
Signs & Symptoms of ALK+ mNSCLC
Symptoms of metastatic ALK+ mNSCLC may include:
- Shortness of breath
- Coughing
- Chest pain
- Fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
- Hoarseness
Treatment Options
Treatment options for ALK+ mNSCLC include:
- Chemotherapy: This involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells. It may be used in combination with other treatments.
- Targeted treatments: Targeted treatments work on specific proteins that are involved in the development and growth of cancer cells. These drugs block these proteins so the cells can't grow or divide. The most common targeted treatments for ALK+ mNSCLC are crizotinib and alectinib.
- Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy uses medicines to stimulate the body's own immune system to fight cancer cells. Examples of immunotherapy drugs include pembrolizumab and nivolumab.
Side Effects
Treatment for metastatic ALK+ mNSCLC may cause side effects. Common side effects may include:
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Hair loss
- Mouth sores
- Neuropathy
- Loss of appetite
Living with Metastatic ALK+ mNSCLC
If you have been diagnosed with ALK+ mNSCLC, it is important to work with your healthcare team to create a treatment plan that meets your needs. It is also important to work with your healthcare provider to manage your symptoms and side effects. It can be helpful to ask your doctor or nurse about support services or organizations that can provide assistance.
It is also important to take steps to stay healthy. This may include eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, getting enough sleep, and reducing levels of stress.