Tickborne Food Allergy: Essentials of Alpha-Gal Syndrome
Course Overview
Alpha-Gal Syndrome (AGS) is a tickborne food allergy to the carbohydrate galactose-a-1,3-galactose (alpha-gal), a molecule found in mammalian meat and other mammalian-derived products, including some found as ‘hidden’ ingredients. Unlike typical food allergies that trigger rapid reactions, AGS is distinct for its delayed allergic onset—up to eight hours after ingestion—making recognition and diagnosis uniquely challenging. What’s more, a subset of patients only report gastrointestinal symptoms, which may be confused with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
This course provides healthcare professionals with foundational knowledge of AGS, including its pathophysiology, epidemiology, risk factors, diagnostic approaches, and management strategies. Learners will explore how tick bites lead to sensitization, why alpha-gal reactions can vary in intensity and timing, and how environmental factors such as climate change are influencing their geographic distribution. By the end of this course, clinicians will be equipped to support people living with AGS, improving early detection and evidence-based management strategies.
Learning Outcomes
Upon the completion of this course, the learner should be able to:
- Explain how Alpha-Gal Syndrome (AGS) develops
- Identify the hallmark signs, symptoms, and diagnostic tools for AGS
- Describe evidence-based approaches to managing AGS
- Counsel patients on safe alpha-gal avoidance strategies in foods, medications, and potential hidden exposures
About the Author/Presenter
Daphne Berryhill, RPh, is a pharmacist, medical writer, and health reporter. She currently practices in oncology infusion and behavioral health pharmacy. Her writing has appeared in GoodRx Health, Forbes Health, and the MedShadow Foundation. Daphne’s additional projects include needs assessments, public health advocacy, and a recently launched Substack newsletter, Meet Me at the Medcart. She graduated from Chicago College of Pharmacy at Midwestern University in 1999 with a bachelor’s degree and lives near Madison, WI, with her husband and kids.
Audience/Accreditations and Approvals
TRC Healthcare/ NetCE
In support of improving patient care, this activity has been planned and implemented by TRC Healthcare/ NetCE. TRC Healthcare/NetCE is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.
This course is designed for the following healthcare professions (select your profession for details):
Nursing, Pharmacy, Physician
If you require special accommodations, please contact Colibri Healthcare Support by clicking here: Contact Us
