Introduction: Alpha-gal syndrome is an immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated delayed hypersensitivity reaction to nonprimate mammalian products, which has a newly established gastrointestinal (GI) phenotype in adults. We assessed the GI presentation and treatment response in children.
Methods: This is a retrospective study of patients presenting in a pediatric gastroenterology clinic tested for alpha-gal IgE.
Results: Forty of 199 patients (20%) tested had a positive alpha-gal-specific IgE, with 77.5% reporting GI symptoms in isolation. Of the 30 that attempted dietary elimination, 8 (27%) experienced full resolution of symptoms.
Discussion: Alpha-gal syndrome can present with isolated GI symptoms in children.
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