Cow's milk protein allergy in children: a practical guide

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Allergy and Immunology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Cow's milk allergy (CMA) is a common condition in infants and children.
• Varied diagnostic and management approaches exist, leading to inconsistencies in care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish best practices for the diagnosis, management, and follow-up of CMA in children.
• To create a common, evidence-based approach for pediatric specialists and primary care physicians.

Main Methods:

• A joint study group comprising pediatric allergologists and gastroenterologists was formed.
• The group convened multiple times to discuss and reach a consensus on diagnostic and management strategies.

Main Results:

• Identified immediate symptoms of CMA including urticaria, angioedema, wheezing, and anaphylaxis.
• Detailed late-onset symptoms such as atopic dermatitis, chronic diarrhea, iron deficiency anemia, and poor growth.
• Included diagnostic methods and proposed three distinct algorithms for CMA diagnosis and follow-up based on symptoms and infant diet.

Conclusions:

• A consensus was reached on key areas of CMA diagnosis and management.
• The developed guide provides a standardized framework for healthcare providers to improve care for children with CMA.