Alpha-Gal Panel

Quest Diagnostics

Sample type: Serum

Requires fasting: No

Phlebotomy required

Details

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.

Biomarker summary

Beef (f27) ige
Lamb (f88) ige
Pork (f26) ige
Galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose (Alpha-Gal) IgE

Additional details

Estimated days for results: Results should be available in 2 - 5 business days after the sample is collected

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

Average sample processing time

2–5 business days

Reference range

Beef (f27) IgE          <0.10 kU/L
Lamb (f88) IgE   <0.10 kU/L
Pork (f26) IgE <0.10 kU/L
Galactose Alpha 1,3 Galactose IgE     <0.10 kU/L

Health categories

Allergies and sensitivities

Patient instructions

Blood Draw Options with Fullscript
Fullscript offers several convenient phlebotomy options to complete your lab testing:

Quest Diagnostics Patient Service Centers (PSC)

Location: Visit a nearby Quest Diagnostics Patient Service Center.
Cost: $10 sample collection fee (paid during lab order checkout).
Scheduling: Schedule your appointment here. Appointments are recommended to reduce wait times. Walk-ins are accepted, but may experience delays. Aim to arrive 10 minutes before your appointment.
Collection Instructions:

Bring a valid ID.
Bring your digital or printed requisition form, available in the Labs tab of your Fullscript account.

Check-in: Scan the QR code from your confirmation email or follow kiosk instructions.
More Info: Quest Diagnostics blood draw guide

Getlabs Mobile Phlebotomy

Location: Sample collection at your home or office.
Cost: $85 sample collection fee (paid during lab order checkout).
Availability: Available in most locations – enter your ZIP code during checkout to confirm.
Scheduling: Schedule your appointment here through your Fullscript account.
Collection Instructions: