Alpha-Gal Panel

What this laboratory test evaluates

Details
Alpha-Gal Panel – This in vitro allergen-specific IgE panel is used to quantitatively measure an individual's IgE response to alpha-gal, an allergy component, and 3 meats (beef, pork, and lamb) that commonly trigger alpha-gal-associated meat allergy. This IgE panel may be used in conjunction with other clinical information to aid in the diagnosis of alpha-gal syndrome, a severe allergic reaction to mammalian meat induced by past tick bites [1].

Most cases of alpha-gal syndrome occur in the southeastern United States because of the heavy presence of the lone star ticks. Other types of ticks also have been associated with alpha-gal syndrome in Europe, Australia, Asia, and the northern and western United States. The alpha-gal (ie. galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose) IgE test helps evaluate the etiology of meat allergies in patients with delayed onset of symptoms (3 to 6 hours after eating meat) [1,2]. IgE antibodies to alpha-gal are the likely mediator of anaphylactic reactions in individuals who develop hypersensitivities to beef, pork and/or lamb as adults [2].

The results of this panel should be interpreted in the context of pertinent clinical and family history and physical examination findings. More specific information about each allergen included in this panel can be found on the Quest Diagnostics Directory Page.

References
1. Alpha-gal syndrome. Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Updated March 28, 2022. Accessed May 21, 2022. https://www.cdc.gov/ticks/alpha-gal/index.html

2. o215 Alpha-Gal. Thermo Fisher Scientific. Accessed June 13, 2022.
https://www.thermofisher.com/diagnostic-education/hcp/us/en/resource-center/allergen-encyclopedia/allergen-component.html?key=o215

Additional test information

This in vitro allergen-specific IgE panel is used to quantitatively measure an individual's IgE response to alpha-gal, an allergy component, and 3 meats (beef, pork, and lamb) that commonly trigger alpha-gal-associated meat allergy. This IgE panel may be used in conjunction with other clinical information to aid in the diagnosis of alpha-gal syndrome, a severe allergic reaction to mammalian meat induced by past tick bites.

Collection and processing

• Sample type: Serum
• Fasting: No
• Estimated laboratory processing: Results should be available in 2 – 5 business days after the sample is collected

How Sunridge uses laboratory information

Sunridge considers the medical question, symptoms, history, medications, prior results, and whether the finding could change care before recommending testing. A laboratory result is not interpreted in isolation and does not establish a diagnosis by itself.

Before requesting this test

Availability, collection requirements, eligibility, and processing estimates can change. Sunridge reviews each request and, when appropriate, creates the order through Fullscript. Follow the current instructions supplied with the approved order.