How to effectively diagnose cow's milk protein allergy in infants?

Introduction

Diagnosing cow's milk protein allergy in infants can be a difficult task for parents and caregivers. The symptoms of this allergy are often attributed to other ailments, which can lead to delays in diagnosis and appropriate treatment. In this article, we will discuss how to effectively diagnose cow's milk protein allergy in infants and what diagnostic methods are available.

Symptoms of cow's milk protein allergy in infants

The symptoms of cow's milk protein allergy in infants can be varied and can sometimes be confused with other gastrointestinal problems. Typical symptoms of this allergy may include:

Skin rash appearing as redness, papules or blisters on the baby's skin.Shortness of breath the baby may have difficulty breathing or cough after consuming cow's milk.Abdominal pain The infant may cry after eating, indicating abdominal pain.Diarrea loose stools and/or frequent urination.

Some infants may also experience nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite and sleep problems. If you have any unusual reaction after consuming cow's milk, consult your doctor for appropriate diagnostic tests.

Diagnostic methods

There are several diagnostic methods that can be used to diagnose cow's milk protein allergy in infants. Depending on the severity of symptoms, your doctor may recommend one or more of these methods. Below are the most commonly used diagnostic techniques:

Trial exam

A trial exam involves introducing a small amount of cow's milk protein into the infant's diet under medical supervision. If allergic reactions do not occur, the amount of cow's milk consumed is gradually increased. This method helps confirm or rule out cow's milk protein allergy.

Skin test

Skin testing involves applying a drop of cow's milk protein extract to the child's skin, followed by a gentle puncture of the skin. If redness, a lump or a blister appears at the puncture site, this is a sign of an allergic reaction to cow's milk protein.

Blood test

A blood test can help determine the presence of IgE antibodies directed against cow's milk protein. The results of a blood test can confirm an allergy if the concentration of IgE antibodies is high.

Elimination and provocation

The elimination method involves excluding cow's milk protein from the infant's diet for a specified period of time. If the allergy symptoms disappear, cow's milk protein is then reintroduced into the diet to see if the symptoms return. If they do, this is confirmation of cow's milk protein allergy.

Summary

Diagnosing cow's milk protein allergy in infants is important to be able to adjust the diet accordingly and avoid potential negative effects on the child's health. If cow's milk protein allergy is suspected, it is important to consult a doctor who will select the appropriate diagnostic methods. Trial exam, skin test, blood test and elimination and provocation method are the most commonly used. Remember that self-observation and recording the child's reaction after consuming cow's milk can also help diagnose the allergy. If a cow's milk protein allergy is confirmed, the doctor may recommend an appropriate elimination diet and supplementation to ensure that the child receives adequate nutrients.