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Rare Cancers

NTRK Fusion Cancer

Also called NTRK, TRK fusion, neurotrophic tyrosine receptor kinase fusion, larotrectinib cancer, entrectinib cancer

NTRK fusion cancers represent a paradigm shift in oncology toward tissue-agnostic treatment. The NTRK1, NTRK2, and NTRK3 genes encode tropomyosin receptor kinases (TRK A, B, and C), which are normally involved in nervous system development.

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About trials for NTRK Fusion Cancer

If you've been diagnosed with any cancer, ask your oncologist about comprehensive genomic profiling to test for NTRK fusions and other actionable mutations. This is especially important for rare tumors or cancers that haven't responded well to standard treatment.

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About NTRK Fusion Cancer

NTRK fusion cancers represent a paradigm shift in oncology toward tissue-agnostic treatment. The NTRK1, NTRK2, and NTRK3 genes encode tropomyosin receptor kinases (TRK A, B, and C), which are normally involved in nervous system development. When one of these genes fuses with another gene through a chromosomal rearrangement, the resulting fusion protein is constitutively active, driving uncontrolled cell growth regardless of the tissue of origin. The breakthrough in NTRK fusion cancer treatment came with the FDA approval of larotrectinib and entrectinib, the first tissue-agnostic cancer therapies approved based on a molecular marker rather than tumor location. These TRK inhibitors have shown remarkable response rates (75%+) across many different cancer types harboring NTRK fusions. Comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) through next-generation sequencing is essential for identifying patients who may benefit from these targeted therapies.

Common Symptoms

  • Symptoms vary widely depending on the tumor type and location
  • A growing lump or mass that may or may not be painful
  • Fatigue and unexplained weight loss
  • Pain in the affected area
  • Organ-specific symptoms depending on tumor location
  • Some NTRK fusion tumors are found incidentally on imaging

Who It Affects

NTRK fusions can occur at any age, from infants to older adults. They are found across more than 20 different tumor types. Some cancers like infantile fibrosarcoma and secretory breast carcinoma have very high rates of NTRK fusions, while common cancers like lung and colon cancer have them rarely. No clear ethnic or gender predisposition for the fusion itself.

Getting Involved in Clinical Trials

If you've been diagnosed with any cancer, ask your oncologist about comprehensive genomic profiling to test for NTRK fusions and other actionable mutations. This is especially important for rare tumors or cancers that haven't responded well to standard treatment. Clinical trials are evaluating next-generation TRK inhibitors designed to overcome resistance to first-generation drugs, as well as combination strategies. Organizations like the GO2 Foundation and cancer-specific advocacy groups can help connect you to trials. Testing for NTRK fusions should be done early in your treatment journey since targeted therapy may be more effective than standard chemotherapy.

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