SHM Converge Scientific Abstract ePoster Gallery-Life After Alpha Gal

Pdf Summary

Alpha-gal syndrome (AGS) is a delayed allergic reaction linked to lone star tick exposure. It occurs after eating mammalian meat or products containing galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose (alpha-gal), typically causing symptoms 3–6 hours later. Common symptoms include hives, itching, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, shortness of breath, wheezing, swelling of the lips or throat, and sometimes anaphylaxis. Because the reaction is delayed, AGS can be hard to recognize and may present as nighttime allergic symptoms after a meal eaten hours earlier.<br /><br />A classic case described a 56-year-old avid hunter with frequent tick exposure who developed hypotension, rash, lightheadedness, nausea, widespread hives, and facial flushing after eating meat and potatoes for dinner. Testing showed elevated alpha-gal IgE (16.9 kU/L), supporting the diagnosis. After avoiding mammalian meat, his IgE levels dropped to 2.0 kU/L. He later tolerated supervised reintroduction of meat without symptoms, suggesting improvement with avoidance and careful monitoring.<br /><br />Overall, AGS should be considered in patients with new-onset allergic reactions or anaphylaxis, especially when symptoms are delayed and there is a history of tick bites.

Asset Subtitle

Bethany J. King

Meta Tag

Author List Benjamin Isaac, Bethany J. King, Julianne Bruce, Lexis Wedell, Magan Aziz, Spencer Ericksen, Valentina Gomez

Category Clinical Vignettes

Concept Alpha-Gal Syndrome

Concept Delayed IgE-mediated Allergic Reaction

Concept Mammalian Meat

Concept Anaphylactic Shock

Concept Delayed Onset

Distinguished Non-Finalist

Presenter Organization MercyOne Des Moines

Presenting Author Bethany J. King

Track Adult

Keywords

alpha-gal syndrome

AGS

lone star tick

delayed allergic reaction

mammalian meat

alpha-gal IgE

anaphylaxis

hives

tick exposure

food allergy

Alpha-Gal Syndrome

Delayed IgE-mediated Allergic Reaction

Mammalian Meat

Anaphylactic Shock

Delayed Onset