Harmonization of Reporting for Detection of ALK Genetic Alterations in Neuroblastoma

In high-risk neuroblastoma, identification of ALK activating genetic alterations is considered for clinical decision-making in a relapse setting or more recently in frontline treatment. The accurate diagnosis of genetic alterations requires harmonization of molecular techniques and reporting, especially when these are considered as inclusion criteria for clinical trials. Analysis and validation were performed across the 21 SIOPEN (International Society of Paediatric Oncology Europe Neuroblastoma) molecular diagnostic laboratories, with 14 DNA samples harboring distinct ALK alterations.