Tick Bites Linked to Severe Alpha-Gal Syndrome Across the U.S.

Two different tick species in Maine and Washington caused allergic reactions following red meat consumption.

Alpha-gal syndrome (AGS) has been linked to tick bites, presents as severe intestinal irritation after eating meat, and is caused by overproduction of IgE antibodies against galactose-α-1,3-galactose (α-gal; found in tick saliva and mammalian meat). Now, two CDC reports describe cases of AGS involving different tick species in widely separated U.S. states.

The first report documents a 45-year-old woman in Maine who found an attached tick identified as Ixodes scapularis. Nine days later (and subsequently for 2 weeks) she developed abdominal pain after eating red meat. Diagnostic testing revealed a high serum titer of IgE antibodies to α-gal. Symptoms of AGS abated with exclusion of dietary meat, but mild intolerance to milk and dairy products…

Reviewing Author

Stephen G. Baum, MD

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Consultant/Advisory BoardClinical Infectious Diseases

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Editorial BoardsMedical Letter

Stephen G. Baum, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardClinical Infectious Diseases

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Editorial BoardsMedical Letter

Tick Bites Linked to Severe Alpha-Gal Syndrome Across the U.S.

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Reviewing Author