An alpha-gal syndrome is a form of allergy to food. It is responsible for people developing an allergy to red meat and other goods derived from mammals.
A sugar molecule known as alpha-gal is released into the circulation after a bite from a Lone Star tick, which causes the alpha-gal syndrome. This activates the body’s defenses, leading to mild to severe allergic responses to red meat and other animal-derived foods.
There’s no treatment available other than avoiding red meat and other animal products; antihistamines, epinephrine, and emergency medical care may be necessary if a severe allergic reaction occurs.
