ALK-rearranged renal cell carcinoma with gains of chromosomes 7 and 17q --- A case report

Abstract

ALK-rearranged renal cell carcinoma (ALK-RCC) is a rare subtype of RCC. In this report we describe the first ALK-RCC with gains of chromosome 7 and 17q. A 39-year-old male presented with an 11.5 cm renal mass and underwent a left radical nephrectomy. The tumor cells demonstrate focal clear cytoplasm, papillary formation, and extensive sarcomatoid changes. Molecular tests showed ALK rearrangement and gains at chromosomes 7 and 17q, which are commonly seen in papillary renal cell carcinoma. Thus caution is advised when interpreting chromosomal alterations for renal cell carcinoma.