ALK detection in lung cancer: identification of atypical and cryptic ALK rearrangements using an optimal algorithm.

False negative of ALK IHC, FISH and NGS results were found in our cohort, but none was false ALK positive. False ALK negatives should be more concerned than false positives. ALK rearrangements with cryptic ALK fusion patterns could be identified using our algorithm. Non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer was recommended for priority detection.