Alpha-gal syndrome: Recognizing and managing a tick-bite-related meat allergy.

Aun Muhammad, Alberto Rubio-Tapia, Arjun Chatterjee, Zehra Naseem

Journal: Cleveland Clinic journal of medicine 2025;92(5):311-319

PMID: 40312115

Free Full Text on HighWire View on PubMed

Abstract

Alpha-gal syndrome is an emerging condition characterized by an immunoglobulin (Ig) E-mediated reaction to galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose (alpha-gal) after consumption of mammalian-derived food products. Identified in the early 2000s, the syndrome is linked to sensitization through tick bites; in the United States, the lone star tick () is the main vector. Symptoms range from pruritus and hives to severe systemic reactions like anaphylaxis, and typically occur 3 to 8 hours after eating meat. Diagnosis involves a history of consistent symptoms, positive alpha-gal IgE serology, and dietary exclusion trials. Management focuses on avoiding foods and products that contain alpha-gal and preventing tick bites.

Address: Department of Internal Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH.; Department of Internal Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS.; Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH.; Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH [email protected].

DOI: 10.3949/ccjm.92a.24072

Link outs

Free resources

Full Text Sources:

https://www.ccjm.org/lookup/pmidlookup?view=long&p...

Medical:

https://medlineplus.gov/foodallergy.html

MeSH Terms: Humans, Tick-Borne Diseases, Meat, Food Hypersensitivity, Syndrome, Tick Bites, Immunoglobulin E