ALK and neoplasm: Age at diagnosis, disease stage, histological characteristics, and genetic variations (e.g., MYCN gene amplification, tumor cell ploidy, and segmental chromosomal alterations in 1p, 11q, and 17q) are the major prognostic factors.3-7 Additionally, somatic mutations in the anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) gene, found in approximately 10% of sporadic cases, are associated with lower chances of cure.8 Serum levels of ferritin and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels, although nonspecific, also correlate with prognosis.3,9