Chua Skin Specialist

Mon, Sept 15 & Tues, Sept 16. Clinic closed. Happy Malaysia Day.

A disease called alpha-gal syndrome, spread by tick bites, is increasing globally, causing allergic reactions to red meat and dairy. It’s triggered by a sugar molecule, alpha-gal, introduced into the bloodstream via ticks like the lone star tick in the US, black-legged tick in Europe, and Asian longhorned tick. Symptoms range from mild rashes to severe anaphylaxis, often delayed hours after consuming mammal-derived products. Cases are rising due to expanding tick populations, linked to climate change and habitat changes. Diagnosis is challenging due to symptom variability, and there’s no cure—management involves avoiding trigger foods. Research is ongoing, but public awareness and tick prevention are critical.