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European Journal of Pediatrics

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Open Access 01-08-2009 | Review

Clinical practice. Diagnosis and treatment of cow’s milk allergy

Authors: C. M. Frank Kneepkens, Yolanda Meijer

Published in: European Journal of Pediatrics | Issue 8/2009

Abstract

Introduction

Cow’s milk allergy (CMA) is thought to affect 2–3% of infants. The signs and symptoms are nonspecific and may be difficult to objectify, and as the diagnosis requires cow’s milk elimination followed by challenge, often, children are considered cow’s milk allergic without proven diagnosis.

Diagnosis

Because of the consequences, a correct diagnosis of CMA is pivotal. Open challenges tend to overestimate the number of children with CMA. The only reliable way to diagnose CMA is by double-blind, placebo-controlled challenge (DBPCFC).

Therapy

At present, the only proven treatment consists of elimination of cow’s milk protein from the child’s diet and the introduction of formulas based on extensively hydrolysed whey protein or casein; amino acid-based formula is rarely indicated. The majority of children will regain tolerance to cow’s milk within the first 5 years of life.

Conclusions

Open challenges can be used to reject CMA, but for adequate diagnosis, DBPCFC is mandatory. In most children, CMA can be adequately treated with extensively hydrolysed whey protein or casein formulas.

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Title: Clinical practice. Diagnosis and treatment of cow’s milk allergy
Authors: C. M. Frank Kneepkens
Yolanda Meijer
Publication date: 01-08-2009
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: European Journal of Pediatrics / Issue 8/2009
Print ISSN: 0340-6199
Electronic ISSN: 1432-1076
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00431-009-0955-7

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Clinical practice. Diagnosis and treatment of cow’s milk allergy

Abstract

Introduction

Diagnosis

Therapy

Conclusions

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Introduction

Diagnosis

Therapy

Conclusions

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