Alpha-gal sensitization among young adults is associated with male sex and polysensitization

Galactose-α-1,3-galactose (α-Gal) syndrome (AGS) is characterized by delayed severe allergic reactions after consumption of mammalian meat or mammalian-derived products and is caused by immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies against the carbohydrate α-Gal.1,2 AGS is most common at middle age, and the route of sensitization appears to be through tick bites.2,3 The prevalence of IgE reactivity to α-Gal differs, 1%-25% depending on region, being more frequent in areas where ticks are common.2 Atopy has been suggested as a risk factor for α-Gal sensitization.