Test ID: ALGAL
Galactose-Alpha-1,3-Galactose (Alpha-Gal), IgE, Serum
Useful For 
Suggests clinical disorders or settings where the test may be helpful
As an aid in diagnosis of an IgE mediated hypersensitivity allergy to non-primate mammalian red meat or meat-derived products such as beef, pork, venison, and meat-derived products (eg, gelatin)
This test is not useful in patients previously treated with immunotherapy to determine if residual clinical sensitivity exists.
This test is not useful for patients in whom the medical management does not depend upon identification of allergen specificity.
Highlights
The presence of IgE antibodies against galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose (alpha-gal) is associated with red meat allergy.
Individuals with IgE antibodies against alpha-gal might develop anaphylactic reactions to the drug cetuximab.
Testing Algorithm Delineates situations when tests are added to the initial order. This includes reflex and additional tests.
Other meat allergen IgE antibody tests may be considered in addition to galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose IgE antibody testing in cases of suspected red meat allergy.
Special Instructions Library of PDFs including pertinent information and forms related to the test
Method Name A short description of the method used to perform the test
Fluorescence Enzyme Immunoassay (FEIA)
NY State Available Indicates the status of NY State approval and if the test is orderable for NY State clients.
Yes
Reporting Name Lists a shorter or abbreviated version of the Published Name for a test
Galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose, IgE
Aliases Lists additional common names for a test, as an aid in searching
Galactose IgE
Galactose-alpha-1,3
Alpha-Gal
Galactose-alpha-1,3
Alpha-Gal