By Dr. Alexander Patterson, Lexington Clinic Allergy/Asthma
Alpha Gal food allergy is an unusual, yet serious, allergic condition that is developed following a bite from the lone star tick. It results in a patient having delayed allergic reactions to the molecule galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose (alpha gal) which is found on all forms of mammalian meat and meat products. Some very sensitive patients will even have allergic reactions to milk or gelatin products, as these also contain alpha gal in small levels.
This can be a very tricky disease to diagnose as reactions are often delayed by many hours after exposure to the culprit food, and they are inconsistent, not happening every single time. The only treatment for alpha gal food allergy is to strictly avoid mammalian meat and meat products, and to keep an epinephrine autoinjector on hand in case of accidental exposures and reactions.
Hunters, hikers, campers, and those who spend time outdoors are all at risk for tick bites and for developing alpha gal food allergy. Using bug spray to help keep ticks away, wearing long sleeve shirts and pants, and checking your body for ticks after having been outdoors, are good ways to help prevent getting tick bites and getting alpha gal. Anyone who starts having allergic reactions after a tick bite or after consuming mammalian meat should be evaluated by an allergist to determine if they have this condition.
Dr. Alexander Patterson specializes in diagnosing and treating allergies, asthma, and immunologic disorders. His professional interests involve food allergy, rhinitis, urticaria, angioedema, drug allergy, and immunodeficiency in both adults and children.
Dr. Patterson is board-certified and has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating patients with Alpha Gal food allergy. If you would like to be evaluated for this condition, or any other allergy problem, make an appointment today.
Dr. Patterson can be reached at (859) 258-5244.
For help scheduling an appointment or to find the location closest to you, please call (859) 258-4362 or visit LexingtonClinic.com.
Dr. Patterson is board-certified and has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating patients with Alpha Gal food allergy. If you would like to be evaluated for this condition, or any other allergy problem, make an appointment today.
Dr. Patterson can be reached at (859) 258-5244.
