NTRK1 Fusion Positive

NTRK1 Fusion Positive: What It Means and How to Treat

NTRK1 Fusion Positive is a molecular signature specifically associated with certain types of cancer, notably certain types of lung, sarcoma, and thyroid cancers. It is identified through molecular screening and detected through formation of a fusion gene. Fusion genes are created when the gene NTRK1, located on chromosome 5, fuses with the genetic code of another gene.

Most importantly, NTRK1 Fusion Positive indicates that the cancer is potentially treatable with a personalized treatment approach known as targeted therapy. Targeted therapy is a type of cancer treatment that specifically targets the cancer cells while leaving the normal healthy cells undamaged. This targeted therapy approach is possible because NTRK1 Fusion Positive cancers contain mutations that cause the cancer cell to become abnormally dependent on the specific gene combination.

Treating NTRK1 Fusion Positive

Treatment options for NTRK1 Fusion Positive depend on the type of cancer and extent of progression. Although surgery is still the most successful method to remove cancerous cells from many types of cancer, some types of cancer are harder to surgically remove and require additional treatments. This is why identifying NTRK1 Fusion Positive is so important—it may allow for targeted therapy as part of the treatment plan.

Targeted therapy involves the use of specific drugs that focus on the NTRK1 Fusion gene mutation and provide a more personalized approach to cancer treatment. Currently, there are several targeted drugs that are FDA approved for treating NTRK1 Fusion Positive cancer, and researchers are developing additional drugs as well. For example, larotrectinib is a targeted therapy drug that is FDA-approved for both pediatric and adult NTRK1-positive cancers, and entrectinib is another drug that is also FDA-approved for cancer cells with an NTRK1 Fusion gene.

What to Do If NTRK1 Fusion Positive

If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with an NTRK1 Fusion Positive cancer, it's important to talk to your doctor. It is important to understand that NTRK1 Fusion Positive is an important biomarker for these types of cancers and can indicate that targeted therapy may be available. Your doctor will review your medical history, recommend a course of treatment, and answer any questions you may have. Knowing your cancer has an NTRK1 Fusion Positive marker oftentimes makes for a more effective and individualized treatment plan.

Tips for Managing NTRK1 Fusion Positive

• Talk to your doctor about your diagnosis and ask questions about the treatment plan
• Seek a second opinion if you are not satisfied with the available options
• Be proactive and research the latest medical information on your diagnosis
• Include friends and family in the decision-making process
• Take advantage of support groups or other resources available

NTRK1 Fusion Positive is an important molecular signature associated with certain types of cancer. It is detected through molecular screening and indicates that the cancer is potentially treatable with targeted therapy. Treatment options for NTRK1 Fusion Positive vary based on the cancer type and the extent of progression. If you or a loved one have an NTRK1 Fusion Positive cancer, it's important to talk to your doctor about your treatment options. With the right approach, NTRK1 Fusion Positive cancers can be effectively managed.