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Carlstrom LP, Akhter A, Macielak RJ, Callejas CA, Eickstaedt JE, Brooks C, Koevering KV, Schoo D, Wu KC, Prevedello DM. Neurosurgical Management of Patients with Alpha-Gal Syndrome. J Neurol Surg Rep 2024; 85:e96-e100. [PMID: 38957306 PMCID: PMC11216800 DOI: 10.1055/a-2341-7365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Alpha-gal syndrome (AGS) is an immunoglobulin E-mediated hypersensitivity to galatcose-alpha-1,3-galactose (alpha-gal), a carbohydrate compound present in nonprimate mammalian products. Initial exposure to alpha-gal most often occurs through a tick bite, most commonly the lone star tick in the United States. Repeated exposure to alpha-gal may elicit severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. The allergy restricts dietary intake and may significantly impact perioperative risk, as many medications, anesthetics, and intraoperative surgical products utilize bovine or porcine-derived agents, including those containing magnesium stearate, glycerol, and gelatin. Here, we review the perineurosurgical care of two individuals with AGS and highlight pertinent clinical practices and perioperative management of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas P. Carlstrom
- Department of Neurological Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, United States
| | - Asad Akhter
- Department of Neurological Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, United States
| | - Robert J. Macielak
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, United States
| | - Claudio A. Callejas
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, United States
| | | | - Christopher Brooks
- Department of Allergy and Immunology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, United States
| | - Kyle Van Koevering
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, United States
| | - Desi Schoo
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, United States
| | - Kyle C. Wu
- Department of Neurological Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, United States
| | - Daniel M. Prevedello
- Department of Neurological Surgery, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, United States
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2
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Wilson JM, Erickson L, Levin M, Ailsworth SM, Commins SP, Platts-Mills TAE. Tick bites, IgE to galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose and urticarial or anaphylactic reactions to mammalian meat: The alpha-gal syndrome. Allergy 2024; 79:1440-1454. [PMID: 38193233 PMCID: PMC11142869 DOI: 10.1111/all.16003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
The recent recognition of a syndrome of tick-acquired mammalian meat allergy has transformed the previously held view that mammalian meat is an uncommon allergen. The syndrome, mediated by IgE antibodies against the oligosaccharide galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose (alpha-gal), can also involve reactions to visceral organs, dairy, gelatin and other products, including medications sourced from non-primate mammals. Thus, fittingly, this allergic disorder is now called the alpha-gal syndrome (AGS). The syndrome is strikingly regional, reflecting the important role of tick bites in sensitization, and is more common in demographic groups at risk of tick exposure. Reactions in AGS are delayed, often by 2-6 h after ingestion of mammalian meat. In addition to classic allergic symptomatology such as urticaria and anaphylaxis, AGS is increasingly recognized as a cause of isolated gastrointestinal morbidity and alpha-gal sensitization has also been linked with cardiovascular disease. The unusual link with tick bites may be explained by the fact that allergic cells and mediators are mobilized to the site of tick bites and play a role in resistance against ticks and tick-borne infections. IgE directed to alpha-gal is likely an incidental consequence of what is otherwise an adaptive immune strategy for host defense against endo- and ectoparasites, including ticks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey M. Wilson
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Loren Erickson
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology and Beirne Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | | | - Samuel M. Ailsworth
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Scott P. Commins
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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3
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Jensen L, Ushinsky A. Management of Acute Hemorrhage without the Use of Mammalian Products in a Patient with Alpha-Gal Syndrome. J Vasc Interv Radiol 2024:S1051-0443(24)00316-6. [PMID: 38704138 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvir.2024.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2024] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Leah Jensen
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University St Louis School of Medicine, 510 South Kingshighway Blvd., Box 8131, St. Louis, MO 63110.
| | - Alexander Ushinsky
- Department of Interventional Radiology, Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University St Louis School of Medicine, 510 South Kingshighway Blvd., Box 8131, St. Louis, MO 63110
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Taira K, Kanade R, Yammine M, Tannous H, Kumar S. Alpha gal syndrome, a relative not absolute contraindication to the use of bovine pericardium to close an intracardiac septal defect: a case report. J Cardiothorac Surg 2024; 19:221. [PMID: 38627833 PMCID: PMC11020787 DOI: 10.1186/s13019-024-02763-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alpha-gal syndrome is an allergic condition in which individuals develop an immune-mediated hypersensitivity response when consuming red meat and its derived products. Its diagnosis is important in individuals undergoing cardiac surgery, as patients frequently require large doses of unfractionated heparin or the insertion of surgical implants, both of which are porcine or bovine in origin. There are currently no guidelines for heparin administration in alpha-gal patients, with even less knowledge regarding the long-term clinical implications of these patients after receiving bioprosthetic valve replacements or other prostheses. CASE PRESENTATION We present the case of a 31-year-old male who underwent cardiac surgery in the setting of alpha-gal syndrome for a large atrial septal defect (ASD) and mitral valve prolapse (MVP). The patient continues to do well one year after undergoing a mitral valve repair, tricuspid valve repair and an ASD closure using bovine pericardium. He sustained no adverse reaction to the use of heparin products or the presence of a bovine pericardial patch. This rare case was managed by a multidisciplinary team consisting of cardiothoracic surgery, cardiac anesthesiology, and allergy/immunology that led to an optimal outcome despite the patient's pertinent allergic history. CONCLUSIONS This case highlights that the use of bovine pericardium and porcine heparin to close septal defects in patients with milder forms of alpha-gal allergy can be considered if other options are not available. Further studies are warranted to investigate the long-term outcomes of such potential alpha-gal containing prostheses and heparin exposure and establish the optimal decision making algorithm and prophylactic regimen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimi Taira
- Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA.
- Department of Surgery, Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stony Brook University Hospital, 101 Nicolls Rd, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA.
| | - Rahul Kanade
- Department of Surgery, Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stony Brook University Hospital, 101 Nicolls Rd, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA
| | - Maroun Yammine
- Department of Surgery, Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stony Brook University Hospital, 101 Nicolls Rd, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA
| | - Henry Tannous
- Department of Surgery, Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stony Brook University Hospital, 101 Nicolls Rd, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA
| | - Sathappan Kumar
- Department of Surgery, Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Stony Brook University Hospital, 101 Nicolls Rd, Stony Brook, NY, 11794, USA
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5
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Edlow JA. Alpha-Gal Syndrome: A Novel and Increasingly Common Cause of Anaphylaxis. Ann Emerg Med 2024; 83:380-384. [PMID: 37831041 DOI: 10.1016/j.annemergmed.2023.08.491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
The alpha-gal syndrome is a recently described cause of anaphylaxis to red meat that has been increasing in frequency over time. It is related to Lone Star tick bites in the United States and occurs in many other parts of the world. It is especially common in the southeastern United States. In addition to the usual symptoms of anaphylaxis, gastrointestinal symptoms are prominent. Another unusual feature is the delay of several hours between eating meat and the development of symptoms. Diagnosis can be made by a blood test for the immunoglobulin E antibodies to a specific oligosaccharide. As many as 10% of patients diagnosed with idiopathic anaphylaxis have alpha-gal syndrome in some parts of the United States. The only current treatment is a meat-free diet. Clinician awareness of alpha-gal syndrome is low, and because severe recurrent life-threatening episodes can occur, it is an important condition for emergency clinicians to be aware of.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan A Edlow
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical School, Boston, MA; Emergency Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA.
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Iglesia EGA, Kwan M, Virkud YV, Iweala OI. Management of Food Allergies and Food-Related Anaphylaxis. JAMA 2024; 331:510-521. [PMID: 38349368 PMCID: PMC11060332 DOI: 10.1001/jama.2023.26857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
Importance An estimated 7.6% of children and 10.8% of adults have IgE-mediated food-protein allergies in the US. IgE-mediated food allergies may cause anaphylaxis and death. A delayed, IgE-mediated allergic response to the food-carbohydrate galactose-α-1,3-galactose (alpha-gal) in mammalian meat affects an estimated 96 000 to 450 000 individuals in the US and is currently a leading cause of food-related anaphylaxis in adults. Observations In the US, 9 foods account for more than 90% of IgE-mediated food allergies-crustacean shellfish, dairy, peanut, tree nuts, fin fish, egg, wheat, soy, and sesame. Peanut is the leading food-related cause of fatal and near-fatal anaphylaxis in the US, followed by tree nuts and shellfish. The fatality rate from anaphylaxis due to food in the US is estimated to be 0.04 per million per year. Alpha-gal syndrome, which is associated with tick bites, is a rising cause of IgE-mediated food anaphylaxis. The seroprevalence of sensitization to alpha-gal ranges from 20% to 31% in the southeastern US. Self-injectable epinephrine is the first-line treatment for food-related anaphylaxis. The cornerstone of IgE-food allergy management is avoidance of the culprit food allergen. There are emerging immunotherapies to desensitize to one or more foods, with one current US Food and Drug Administration-approved oral immunotherapy product for treatment of peanut allergy. Conclusions and Relevance IgE-mediated food allergies, including delayed IgE-mediated allergic responses to red meat in alpha-gal syndrome, are common in the US, and may cause anaphylaxis and rarely, death. IgE-mediated anaphylaxis to food requires prompt treatment with epinephrine injection. Both food-protein allergy and alpha-gal syndrome management require avoiding allergenic foods, whereas alpha-gal syndrome also requires avoiding tick bites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward G A Iglesia
- Division of Allergy, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Mildred Kwan
- Thurston Arthritis Research Center, Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Immunology, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill
| | - Yamini V Virkud
- University of North Carolina Food Allergy Initiative, Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill
| | - Onyinye I Iweala
- Thurston Arthritis Research Center, Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Immunology, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill
- University of North Carolina Food Allergy Initiative, Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill
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7
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Perusko M, Grundström J, Eldh M, Hamsten C, Apostolovic D, van Hage M. The α-Gal epitope - the cause of a global allergic disease. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1335911. [PMID: 38318181 PMCID: PMC10838981 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1335911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
The galactose-α-1,3-galactose (α-Gal) epitope is the cause of a global allergic disease, the α-Gal syndrome (AGS). It is a severe form of allergy to food and products of mammalian origin where IgE against the mammalian carbohydrate, α-Gal, is the cause of the allergic reactions. Allergic reactions triggered by parenterally administered α-Gal sources appear immediately, but those triggered via the oral route appear with a latency of several hours. The α-Gal epitope is highly immunogenic to humans, apes and old-world monkeys, all of which produce anti-α-Gal antibodies of the IgM, IgA and IgG subclasses. Strong evidence suggests that in susceptible individuals, class switch to IgE occurs after several tick bites. In this review, we discuss the strong immunogenic role of the α-Gal epitope and its structural resemblance to the blood type B antigen. We emphasize the broad abundance of α-Gal in different foods and pharmaceuticals and the allergenicity of various α-Gal containing molecules. We give an overview of the association of tick bites with the development of AGS and describe innate and adaptive immune response to tick saliva that possibly leads to sensitization to α-Gal. We further discuss a currently favored hypothesis explaining the mechanisms of the delayed effector phase of the allergic reaction to α-Gal. We highlight AGS from a clinical point of view. We review the different clinical manifestations of the disease and the prevalence of sensitization to α-Gal and AGS. The usefulness of various diagnostic tests is discussed. Finally, we provide different aspects of the management of AGS. With climate change and global warming, the tick density is increasing, and their geographic range is expanding. Thus, more people will be affected by AGS which requires more knowledge of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marija Perusko
- Division of Immunology and Allergy, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Innovative Centre of the Faculty of Chemistry, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jeanette Grundström
- Division of Immunology and Allergy, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Maria Eldh
- Division of Immunology and Allergy, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Carl Hamsten
- Division of Immunology and Allergy, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Danijela Apostolovic
- Division of Immunology and Allergy, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marianne van Hage
- Division of Immunology and Allergy, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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8
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Leder J, Diederich A, Patel B, Bowie M, Renwick CM, Mangunta V. Perioperative Considerations in Alpha-Gal Syndrome: A Review. Cureus 2024; 16:e53208. [PMID: 38425598 PMCID: PMC10902671 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.53208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Galactose-⍺-1, 3-galactose (alpha-gal) is an oligosaccharide found in mammalian tissues that causes allergic reactions in patients with alpha-gal syndrome (AGS). AGS is a hypersensitivity reaction notable for both immediate and delayed allergic and anaphylactic symptoms. As a tick-based disease, AGS has gained increasing prevalence across the United States and can have a significant influence on which medications are safe for patients. Many medications used within the operating room and intensive care units have inactive ingredients that can be mammalian-derived and therefore should be vetted before administering to patients with AGS. Management of patients with AGS involves diligent action in the preoperative and perioperative settings to reduce patient exposure to potentially harmful medications. In conducting a comprehensive risk stratification assessment, the anesthesia team should identify any at-risk patients and determine which medications they have safely tolerated in the past. Despite obtaining a complete history, not all patients with AGS will be identified preoperatively. The perioperative team should understand which common medications pose a risk of containing alpha-gal moieties (e.g., heparins, gelatin capsules, vaccines, lidocaine patches, surgifoam, etc.). For this reason, this paper includes a compendium of common anesthetic medications that have been cross-referenced for ingredients that have the potential to cause an AGS reaction. Any potentially unsafe medications have been identified such that medical providers can cross-reference with the ingredients listed at their respective institutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Leder
- Department of Cardiothoracic Intensive Care Nursing, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, USA
| | - Anna Diederich
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, USA
| | - Bhavik Patel
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, USA
| | - Mark Bowie
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, USA
| | - Christian M Renwick
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, USA
| | - Venkat Mangunta
- Division of Cardiothoracic Anesthesia, Department of Anesthesiology, Lehigh Valley Health Network, Allentown, USA
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Hasegawa K, Powers EM, Yoneda ZT, Richardson TD, Siegrist KK, Stevenson WG. Importance of alpha-gal syndrome in patients undergoing catheter ablation. HeartRhythm Case Rep 2023; 9:926-928. [PMID: 38204822 PMCID: PMC10774587 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrcr.2023.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kanae Hasegawa
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Fukui, Fukui, Japan
| | - Edward M. Powers
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Zachary T. Yoneda
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Travis D. Richardson
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Kara K. Siegrist
- Division of Cardiothoracic Anesthesiology, Department of Anesthesiology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - William G. Stevenson
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
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10
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Reddy S, Yi L, Shields B, Platts-Mills T, Wilson J, Flowers RH. Alpha-gal syndrome: A review for the dermatologist. J Am Acad Dermatol 2023; 89:750-757. [PMID: 37150300 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2023.04.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Alpha-gal syndrome (AGS) is an allergy to "red meat" and other mammalian products due to immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies against the sugar moiety galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose (alpha-gal), which is acquired following tick bites. Clinically, AGS presents with urticaria, abdominal pain, nausea, and occasionally anaphylaxis, and has wide inter- and intra-personal variability. Because symptom onset is generally delayed by 2 to 6 hours after meat consumption, AGS can be easily confused with other causes of urticaria and anaphylaxis, such as chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) and mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS). Diagnosis relies on a combination of clinical history, positive alpha-gal IgE blood testing and improvement on a mammalian-restricted diet. Management of the syndrome centers primarily on avoidance of mammalian meats (and occasionally dairy and other products) as well as acute management of allergic symptoms. Counseling about tick avoidance measures is also important as AGS will wane over time in many patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumya Reddy
- Department of Dermatology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia.
| | - Lauren Yi
- Department of Dermatology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Bridget Shields
- Department of Dermatology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Thomas Platts-Mills
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - Jeffrey Wilson
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - R Hal Flowers
- Department of Dermatology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
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11
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Nourian MM, Stone CA, Siegrist KK, Riess ML. Perioperative implications of patients with alpha gal allergies. J Clin Anesth 2023; 86:111056. [PMID: 36682226 PMCID: PMC11087933 DOI: 10.1016/j.jclinane.2023.111056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Alpha Gal Syndrome (AGS) is an emerging immune response to mammalian products (MP) containing the oligosaccharide galactose-α-1,3 galactose (α-Gal) which includes meats and inactive ingredients in certain medications. This becomes clinically important in the perioperative realm as MPs are commonly found in the operating room, and pre- and post-operative settings, and can trigger responses as severe as anaphylaxis. In this review, authors discuss the epidemiology, diagnosis and treatment of AGS reactions. Additionally, strategies are explored in order to screen and prevent exposure to MP with a multidisciplinary approach. While this emerging allergy is still not fully understood, it is of paramount importance that all anesthesia providers recognize the implications of MP exposure in AGS patients and ultimately prevent harm in this highly vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maziar M Nourian
- Department of Anesthesiology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1161 21(st) Avenue South, Nashville, TN 37232, USA.
| | - Cosby A Stone
- Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy, Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1211 Medical Center Dr, Nashville, TN 37232, USA.
| | - Kara K Siegrist
- Department of Anesthesiology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1161 21(st) Avenue South, Nashville, TN 37232, USA.
| | - Matthias L Riess
- Department of Anesthesiology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1161 21(st) Avenue South, Nashville, TN 37232, USA; Anesthesiology, Tennessee Valley Healthcare System Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 1310 24(th) Ave South, Nashville, TN 37212, USA; Department of Pharmacology, Vanderbilt University, 465 21(st) Avenue South, Nashville, TN 37232, USA.
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12
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Coumes-Salomon C, Géniaux H, Boumedienne A, Touraine F, Vincent F, Bellet-Fraysse E. Les tests cutanés aux héparines chez les patients sensibilisés à l’alpha-gal au CHU de Limoges. REVUE FRANÇAISE D'ALLERGOLOGIE 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reval.2023.103323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
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13
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Macdougall JD, Thomas KO, Iweala OI. The Meat of the Matter: Understanding and Managing Alpha-Gal Syndrome. Immunotargets Ther 2022; 11:37-54. [PMID: 36134173 PMCID: PMC9484563 DOI: 10.2147/itt.s276872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Alpha-gal syndrome is an unconventional food allergy, characterized by IgE-mediated hypersensitivity responses to the glycan galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose (alpha-gal) and not to a food-protein. In this review, we discuss how alpha-gal syndrome reframes our current conception of the mechanisms of pathogenesis of food allergy. The development of alpha-gal IgE is associated with tick bites though the possibility of other parasites promoting sensitization to alpha-gal remains. We review the immune cell populations involved in the sensitization and effector phases of alpha-gal syndrome and describe the current understanding of why allergic responses to ingested alpha-gal can be delayed by several hours. We review the foundation of management in alpha-gal syndrome, namely avoidance, but also discuss the use of antihistamines, mast cell stabilizers, and the emerging role of complementary and alternative therapies, biological products, and oral immunotherapy in the management of this condition. Alpha-gal syndrome influences the safety and tolerability of medications and medical devices containing or derived from mammalian products and impacts quality of life well beyond food choices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica D Macdougall
- Department of Medicine, Thurston Arthritis Research Center, Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Immunology, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina Food Allergy Initiative, Division of Allergy and Immunology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Kevin O Thomas
- Department of Medicine, Thurston Arthritis Research Center, Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Immunology, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina Food Allergy Initiative, Division of Allergy and Immunology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
| | - Onyinye I Iweala
- Department of Medicine, Thurston Arthritis Research Center, Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Immunology, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina Food Allergy Initiative, Division of Allergy and Immunology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA
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14
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Reactivity to Heparin in Alpha-Gal Allergic Patients: A Potential Role for Skin Testing? Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2022; 129:515-517. [PMID: 35870755 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2022.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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McRae AS, Tidwell WP, Patel S, Lombard FW. Heparin desensitisation prior to cardiopulmonary bypass in a patient with alpha-gal allergy. Anaesth Rep 2022; 10:e12203. [PMID: 36561536 PMCID: PMC9758002 DOI: 10.1002/anr3.12203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This case report describes the implementation of a heparin desensitisation strategy for a patient with confirmed galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose (alpha-gal) allergy, prior to cardiac surgery. We describe the pre-, intra- and postoperative management. We believe this report can enhance the limited data currently in existence on alternative strategies for heparin utilisation in cardiopulmonary bypass in a previously intolerant patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. S. McRae
- Department of PharmacyVanderbilt University Medical CenterNashvilleTNUSA
| | - W. P. Tidwell
- Department of PharmacyVanderbilt University Medical CenterNashvilleTNUSA
| | - S. Patel
- Department of PharmacyAscension Saint Thomas Rutherford HospitalMurfreesboroTNUSA
| | - F. W. Lombard
- Department of AnesthesiaVanderbilt University Medical CenterNashvilleTNUSA
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Anaphylaxis to Excipients in Current Clinical Practice: Evaluation and Management. Immunol Allergy Clin North Am 2022; 42:239-267. [PMID: 35469617 PMCID: PMC9907103 DOI: 10.1016/j.iac.2021.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Excipients are the inactive ingredients in a drug or product that help to stabilize, preserve, or enhance the pharmacokinetics and bioavailability of the active ingredients. Excipient allergy is rare and hence often missed or misdiagnosed due to lack of awareness of the need to carefully review all drug ingredients. For the patient, excipient allergy can be frightening and potentially disruptive to health care delivery. This narrative review provides a clinically oriented, international, collaborative perspective on excipient allergy testing, management of future health care safety, limitations in our testing modalities, and barriers to optimal care.
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Abstract
Das Alpha-Gal-Syndrom gehört zu den spannendsten Entdeckungen in der Allergologie der letzten 15 Jahre und wird ausgelöst durch spezifisches Immunglobulin E (sIgE) gegen den für Menschen immunogenen Zucker Galaktose-α‑1,3‑Galaktose (Alpha-Gal). Säugetierfleisch, Milch und daraus hergestellte Nahrungsmittel enthalten Alpha-Gal und können zu Anaphylaxien führen. Auch Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte aus Säugetiergewebe können allergen sein. Zeckenstiche gelten als Hauptquelle einer Induktion von Alpha-Gal-sIgE. Ziel dieses Beitrags ist es, einen Überblick über den Stand des Wissens zum klinischen Bild und zu pathophysiologischen Konzepten zu geben.
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Nwamara U, Kaplan MC, Mason N, Ingemi AI. A retrospective evaluation of heparin product reactions in patients with alpha-gal allergies. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2021; 13:101869. [PMID: 34798527 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2021.101869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alpha-gal allergy, also known as red meat allergy or alpha-gal syndrome, can present after bites of certain tick species that contain galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose (alpha-gal) carbohydrate. Following this exposure, patients may develop an allergic reaction after mammalian meat consumption. Some heparin products are derived from porcine intestinal tissue, and it is therefore possible that administering these medications to a patient with an alpha-gal allergy may trigger a reaction. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to evaluate the incidence of reactions to porcine heparin products in patients with an alpha-gal allergy. METHODS A retrospective case series was conducted by review of electronic medical record data. Patients included were between the ages of 18 and 89 years, with a documented alpha-gal or red meat allergy and an admission to a hospital in the Sentara Healthcare system. The primary outcome was the incidence of allergic reactions upon exposure to heparin products in patients with a documented alpha-gal allergy. RESULTS Patients with a documented alpha-gal allergy received a heparin product in 57 of 158 hospital visits (36.1%). Heparin products were tolerated in 56 of the 57 visits (98.3%). The incidence of an alpha-gal reaction to unfractionated heparin was 2.6% (1/39) while the incidence of an alpha-gal reaction to enoxaparin was 0% (0/22). CONCLUSION AND RELEVANCE Heparin products were associated with a low incidence of alpha-gal reactions among patients with documented alpha-gal allergy. It is possible that enoxaparin poses less of a risk for reaction in these patients compared to unfractionated heparin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ugochi Nwamara
- Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
| | - Marcus C Kaplan
- Department of Pharmacy, Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, Norfolk, VA, United States
| | - Niel Mason
- Department of Pharmacy, Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, Norfolk, VA, United States
| | - Amanda I Ingemi
- Department of Pharmacy, Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, Norfolk, VA, United States.
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Altshuler E, Krikpatrick J, Aryan M, Miralles F. Mammalian meat allergy emerges after tick bite: the alpha-gal syndrome. BMJ Case Rep 2021; 14:e245488. [PMID: 34799391 PMCID: PMC8606763 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2021-245488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Alpha-gal syndrome (AGS) is a hypersensitivity reaction to mammalian meat that develops after tick bite exposure. AGS was first described in 2009 and testing for the allergy has become available in the last decade. We report the case of a 56-year-old farmer with a history of frequent lone star tick bites who presented with a 7-year history of diffuse urticaria occurring hours after eating red meat. AGS is likely underdiagnosed because of the unusual presentation of the allergy, historic lack of available testing, and deficiency of physician knowledge about the condition. Recognition of AGS is important both to help alleviate symptom burden and to avoid iatrogenesis. Patients with AGS should not receive products containing mammalian products, such as cat-gut suture, porcine-derived heart valves, and bovine-derived vaccines. Patients with AGS may present in a variety of clinical environments and physicians of all kinds should be able to recognise the symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellery Altshuler
- Internal Medicine, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | | | - Mahmoud Aryan
- Internal Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Frank Miralles
- University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, Florida, USA
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