Dossier
Dr. Scott Commins
Coverage of Dr. Scott Commins in the Nexus archive.
- Meet the lone star tick: the primary U.S. source of alpha-gal syndrome, which is a life-threatening meat allergy that’s on the rise
Alpha-gal syndrome, a life-threatening meat allergy linked to lone star tick bites, is on the rise in the U.S. The condition triggers allergic reactions to red meat and dairy, with symptoms including hives and diarrhea. Recent approval of the first treatment offers new hope, but the expanding habitat of lone star ticks contributes to increased cases.
- What to know about alpha-gal syndrome, the life-threatening meat allergy caused by tick bites
Alpha-gal syndrome is a life-threatening allergy to meat caused by tick bites, with symptoms including hives and diarrhea after consuming red meat or dairy. The first treatment has been approved, and cases are rising due to increased awareness and the expanding habitat of the lone star tick.