Epi 3: Getting Tested

How do I know I have it? Is it all in my head? 

A blood test for galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose (alpha-gal) specific IgE (sIgE) is the main test that healthcare providers use to help them diagnose alpha-gal syndrome. In the U.S., this test is available via Viracor Eurofins Clinical Diagnostics. In Europe, it is available via Phadia Thermofisher.

Viracor (U.S.)

Test Code: 30039

Unless a provider has a contract with Viracor (and few do) they will typically send patients to a commercial lab, like Quest or Labcorp, which sends samples to Viracor to be tested.

• Quest Alpha-gal IgE Test Code: 95241
• Labcorp Alpha-gal IgE Test Code: 806562 (As of 12/13/21 Labcorp reported a cost of $77 for this test)

Phadia Thermofisher (Europe)

• ImmunoCAP Component nGal-alpha-1,3-Gal (alpha-Gal)

Information copied from: https://alphagalinformation.org/diagnosis-and-testing/

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For more information on living with Alpha-Gal Syndrome please check out the Alpha-Gal Information site at http://alphagalinformation.org

If you’re one of those people who like reputable medical resources check out:

Mayo Clinic - https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alpha-gal-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20428608

Centers for Disease Control - https://www.cdc.gov/ticks/alpha-gal/index.html

WebMD (no it’s not cancer) - https://www.webmd.com/allergies/what-is-alpha-gal-syndrome

American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology - https://www.aaaai.org/tools-for-the-public/conditions-library/allergies/alpha-gal-and-red-meat-allergy

National Library of Medicine - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33529984/

For support on your Alpha-Gal journey lookup “Alpha-Gal” or “Alpha Gal” on the group search on FB where a number of groups will pop up. These communities are great for support and information as we navigate this strange new world together.