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Alpha-gal Syndrome

Ashley Lynn Dojcsak, DO and Ruba Odeh, DO Reviewed 04/2024
 


BASICS

DESCRIPTION

  • Alpha-gal syndrome is an allergy to the sugar galactose alpha-1,3-galactose which is present on all cells of nonprimate mammals found in beef, pork, and other mammalian meats and mea...

DIAGNOSIS

The diagnosis is one of exclusion, generally occurring in patients with GI symptoms and/or allergic skin rashes living in high risk areas, primarily in the eastern and southern US. 

HISTORY

  • Pa...

TREATMENT

  • Diet modification is the mainstay of treatment; initially with total avoidance of alpha gal (mammalian meat products and derivatives) with food products added back into the diet as tolerated...

ADDITIONAL READING

  • McGill SK, Hashash JG, Platts-Mills TA. AGA Clinical Practice Update on Alpha-Gal-Syndrome for the GI Clinician: Commentary. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2023;21...

CLINICAL PEARLS

  • Consider alpha gal syndrome in patient's with unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms and/or allergic symptoms, particularly in high risk areas in the eastern, southeastern, and south ce...

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