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Medical information Clinical review pending

Cytogenetics

FISH ALK1 Breakapart Rearrangement Test

The FISH ALK1 Breakapart Rearrangement Test detects genetic changes in the ALK gene, often linked to certain cancers like non-small cell lung cancer. This test helps guide personalized treatment decisions.

General information only: This page is not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. A qualified clinician should decide whether testing is appropriate and interpret results in context.

Review status: No completed medical review is recorded for this page.

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Counselor guidance included Confidential handling Kenya-wide coordination

At a glance

Plan your test

Sample
Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue block containing at least 10% tumor tissue.
Results
Report available in 4 working days after sample receipt.
Preparation
Ensure the Chromosome & FISH analysis Requisition Form (Form 17) is completed and submitted with the sample. Ship the tissue block at room temperature.
Test priceKSh 24,000

Payment: M-Pesa and card options can be confirmed during booking.

Insurance & government schemes

Is this test covered for you?

We help you verify whether the FISH ALK1 Breakapart Rearrangement Test test can be claimed against your insurer, employer scheme or a Kenyan government health scheme — before you book. Coverage depends on your plan, clinical indication and your provider's rules; final approval always rests with them.

Talk to a claims advisor

Providers & schemes we can help you check

Government & public schemes

SHIF — Social Health Insurance Fund Linda Mama EduAfya NHIF (legacy cards)

Eligibility and benefits follow the current rules of the Social Health Authority (SHA) and applicable government programmes.

Private insurers & employer schemes

Jubilee Health AAR APA Britam CIC Madison Resolution Pioneer Minet Old Mutual GA Life Heritage + other licensed insurers

Names shown for identification only — listing does not imply partnership or guarantee of coverage.

Have these ready when we check

  • Insurer or scheme name & policy / member number
  • A clinician's request / prescription for the test
  • Pre-authorisation letter, if your plan requires one

Free coverage check

Ask us to verify your cover

Send your details and our claims team confirms what documents you need and whether pre-authorisation applies — usually the same working day.

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Used only to process your coverage check — see our Privacy Policy. Verification support is free and does not guarantee your provider will pay.

01

Start with fit

Is this the right test for you?

The best test starts with a clear clinical question. These are common reasons a clinician or family may consider this test.

  • ✓Diagnosis of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
  • ✓Identifying potential targets for therapy in NSCLC
  • ✓Guiding treatment decisions for specific cancer types
  • ✓Patients with suspected ALK-positive cancer
02

In plain language

What this test helps you understand

This test identifies ALK gene rearrangements, which can help oncologists determine the most appropriate treatment strategy, particularly for non-small cell lung cancer. Identifying these rearrangements may indicate eligibility for targeted therapies.
The FISH ALK1 Breakapart Rearrangement Test is a specialized diagnostic tool used in oncology to identify specific genetic alterations associated with certain types of cancer. It employs fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) technology to examine the ALK gene for rearrangements. These rearrangements can play a significant role in cancer development and progression, influencing how the disease responds to treatment. Understanding the status of the ALK gene is crucial for oncologists to select the most effective therapies for their patients. This test is particularly relevant for individuals diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), as ALK rearrangements are a known driver in a subset of these cases. Identifying these rearrangements allows for the potential use of targeted therapies designed to inhibit the abnormal ALK protein activity. Discussing the need for this test with your doctor is important to determine if it's appropriate for your specific situation.
03

Medical review status

Clinical review pending

A completed medical review is not recorded for this page. No clinician has endorsed the information shown here. Please discuss testing decisions with a qualified healthcare professional.

Meet the DNA Labs Kenya medical team →
04

A simple process

What happens next?

You do not have to navigate the test alone. We help you move from question to next step.

1

Speak with us

We check the test and answer your questions before collection.

2

Give your sample

Choose home collection or a coordinated hub visit in Kenya. We explain whether this test uses a cheek swab or blood draw.

3

Understand your report

A counselor helps you understand the result and the next steps.

05

Choose your collection

Home collection or a lab visit

We will explain the sample, preparation, and next steps before anything is collected.

Home collection

Choose a coordinated visit at home or another convenient location. Our team confirms the appointment and sample requirements in advance.

Lab or hub visit

Prefer to visit a coordinated location? We can guide you to the right hub and explain what to expect when you arrive.

Ask about locations →
PreparationEnsure the Chromosome & FISH analysis Requisition Form (Form 17) is completed and submitted with the sample. Ship the tissue block at room temperature.
SampleFormalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue block containing at least 10% tumor tissue.
MethodologyFluorescent In Situ Hybridization (FISH)
PrivacyYour sample and report are handled confidentially. Ask the team how your information is stored and shared.
This test specifically looks for ALK gene rearrangements. It does not detect other genetic alterations. The quality of the tissue sample can affect test results. Confirm with the laboratory before booking.
06

Read your report

What common result terms mean

PositiveA finding was identified. Your clinician or counselor will explain what it means for your care.
NegativeThe specific finding tested for was not identified. It does not rule out every possible cause.
VUSA variant was found, but current evidence is not enough to classify it. Your counselor can explain follow-up.
07

Questions people ask

Frequently asked questions

This test uses FISH technology to detect rearrangements in the ALK gene, which are associated with certain types of cancer, particularly non-small cell lung cancer.
Identifying ALK gene rearrangements helps doctors choose the most effective treatment plan, including targeted therapies, for patients with specific cancers.
A formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue block containing tumor tissue is required for this test.
Results are typically available within 4 working days after the laboratory receives the sample.
Patients diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer or those whose doctors suspect an ALK gene rearrangement should discuss this test with their healthcare provider.
08

Collaboration

Open for partnership with hospitals, clinics, doctors & researchers

Whether you are referring patients, building a research programme or supporting students, we work as an extension of your team — with responsive communication and clear scientific standards.

Hospitals & clinics

Referral pathways, coordinated sample logistics and shared reporting that fits your clinical workflow.

Doctors & specialists

LOINC-coded reports, ACMG-based variant classification and a direct scientific line for complex cases.

Research institutions

Sanger sequencing, NGS panels and custom assays — with project design support, batch pricing and agreed turnaround commitments.

Students & academic projects

Discounted laboratory services for college, master's and PhD research projects — including proposal guidance and cost-effective batch testing.

Explore partnerships
09

Trust & transparency

Sources, standards & how this page is maintained

Standards & references

  • ACMG/AMP technical standards for sequence variant interpretation
  • ClinGen curation and gene–disease validity frameworks where applicable
  • LOINC-coded reporting for interoperable results
  • ISO 9001:2015 quality management; ISO 15189 accreditation in progress

Page provenance

  • Last updated: September 27, 2026
  • Medical review: not yet completed
  • Written for patients & clinicians in Kenya; reviewed periodically against current guidance

Medical disclaimer: this page is general information, not a diagnosis or personal medical advice. Testing decisions and result interpretation should be made with a qualified healthcare professional.

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