An allergen extract manufacturer known for its work in human medicine has entered the U.S. veterinary sector with the acquisition of Bio-Medical Services, a veterinary reference laboratory that pioneered in vitro serum IgE allergy testing for animals. ALK, based in Round Rock, Texas, expanded its product portfolio with the addition of Bio-Medical’s ACTT Allergy Management Program. The program includes serum immunoglobulin E (IgE) allergy testing, bulk allergen sales for veterinary dermatologists and allergen-specific immunotherapy treatment such as ACTT Allergy Drops, ALK reported. “Joining forces with ALK will allow us to provide complete allergy management resources to veterinary dermatologists and general practitioners alike,” said Pamela Blaine, Bio-Medical’s marketing director. “By leveraging the expertise of both companies, we will enhance and expand the ACTT Allergy Management Program to provide the most comprehensive resource for allergy testing and treatment in the industry.” Terms of the transaction, which was announced Wednesday, were not released. Bio-Medical, based in Austin, Texas, introduced in vitro serum IgE allergy testing to the veterinary industry in 1989, the company reported, and has helped treat allergic diseases in dogs, cats and horses. ALK has researched human allergies since 1923. The company also provides diagnostic tools, automation software and customized business, technical and clinical consulting services.
