Can a tick bite make you allergic to red meat?

Alpha-gal syndrome, also known as alpha-gal allergy or red meat allergy, is an allergic reaction to galactose-α-1,3-galactose (alpha-gal), a carbohydrate found in the meat of mammals (such as beef, pork, lamb , etc.).

This allergy is most commonly caused by a tick bite, particularly the Lone Star tick (Amblyomma americanum) in the United States, but also by other ticks in different parts of the world.

The symptoms of alpha-gal syndrome include rash and itching, digestive problems and breathing problems? In the worst case, a life-threatening allergic reaction can cause breathing difficulties, swelling of the throat and tongue, a rapid drop in blood pressure and loss of consciousness.

The diagnosis of alpha-gal syndrome is usually made by an allergist based on the patient's medical history, including a history of tick bites, and through specific tests such as a blood test and a skin prick test to detect an allergic reaction to alpha-gal .

Source: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alpha-gal-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20428608

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2025-01-01 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2026