Meat Allergy: What is Alpha-Gal Syndrome?

Allergists are investigating the causes of red meat allergy, with Alpha-Gal syndrome becoming increasingly common.

In recent years, the Dermatology Clinic of the University of Tübingen in Germany has been diagnosing Alpha-Gal syndrome, a red meat allergy indirectly caused by tick bites.

The syndrome manifests 3-6 hours after consuming red meat (beef, pork, lamb) with symptoms ranging from mild itching to shortness of breath and anaphylaxis. The delayed onset of symptoms makes diagnosis difficult.

The cause is the substance Alpha-Gal, transmitted through the saliva of ticks. The immune system produces antibodies, causing an allergic reaction upon subsequent red meat consumption.

The increase in cases is linked to climate change and the expansion of tick activity. In endemic areas, up to 20% of the population has been sensitized to Alpha-Gal.

Gardeners, farmers, and hunters are particularly vulnerable.

Source: iefimerida.gr