First Fatality from Tick-Borne Meat Allergy Reported

The death of a 47-year-old man in New Jersey marks the first known fatality linked to a tick-borne meat allergy, identified as alpha-gal syndrome (AGS). Researchers from UVAHealth in Virginia reported that the man passed away shortly after consuming a hamburger, which occurred last summer, just two weeks after experiencing severe allergic reactions following a steak meal.

The Allergic Reaction

The man suffered from intense abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea after both the hamburger and the steak. Initially classified as a “sudden unexplained death,” Dr. Thomas Platts-Mills from UVAHealth later determined that the cause was a fatal allergic reaction associated with AGS.

Understanding Alpha-Gal Syndrome

Alpha-gal syndrome, often referred to as “red-meat allergy” or “tick bite meat allergy,” arises from the bite of the Lone Star tick. This tick, prevalent in the Southeastern and Eastern United States, injects a sugar molecule called alpha-gal into the bloodstream, leading to allergic reactions.

Symptoms and Effects

Individuals with AGS develop severe allergic symptoms when consuming red meats such as pork, beef, rabbit, lamb, and even mammal-derived products like cheese and gelatin. Symptoms typically manifest within hours and can vary:

• Rashes
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Swelling of facial areas
• Wheezing or shortness of breath

Potential Contributing Factors

Dr. Platts-Mills noted that the deceased man’s consumption of beer with his meal, exposure to ragweed pollen, and recent exercise may have intensified his allergic reaction. While fatal anaphylaxis is rare, this incident highlights the severe risks associated with AGS.

Diagnosis and Management

Diagnosing AGS requires specific antibody testing and a thorough clinical exam, which can take an average of seven years due to accessibility issues. Current understanding indicates that while there is no definitive cure for AGS, individuals can manage symptoms through dietary adjustments.

Recommended Prevention Strategies

To mitigate the risk of tick bites, experts suggest:

• Using EPA-approved insect repellents (e.g., DEET, picaridin)
• Wearing long sleeves and pants in tick-prone areas
• Showering and conducting body checks after outdoor activities

Takeaway

Health professionals, particularly in regions where Lone Star ticks are common, are urged to remain vigilant about the risk of AGS. Patients experiencing unexpected severe abdominal pain after eating mammalian meat should seek medical assessment for potential sensitization to alpha-gal.