[Case report: allergy to cow's milk protein]

Ana Muñoz Urribarri1, Alex Delgado Godos, Raúl Castillo Durán

  • 1Gastroenterólogo Pediatra, Unidad de Gastropediatría, Servicio de Pediatría Especializada. Hospital Nacional Edgardo Rebagliati Martins. Lima – Perú.

Insights

Cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA) in infants can mimic infections. Prompt diagnosis and switching to an amino acid formula are crucial for recovery from severe CMPA, as shown in two infant cases.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Allergy and Immunology

Background:

  • Cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA) is a common concern in infants.
  • Casein-based formulas are frequent triggers for CMPA.
  • CMPA can present with gastrointestinal symptoms that may be misdiagnosed as infections.

Observation:

  • Two infants presented with severe gastrointestinal distress, including diarrhea, vomiting, and failure to thrive, attributed to CMPA.
  • Initial treatments, including antibiotics and lactose-free formulas, were ineffective.
  • Diagnostic evaluations revealed duodenal atrophy and immunological markers consistent with severe CMPA.

Findings:

  • One infant experienced symptom resolution and growth resumption within 48 hours of switching to an amino acid-based formula.
  • The second infant showed good tolerance and resolution of edema with a casein hydrolysate formula, with mucosal regeneration observed later.
  • Amino acid-based formulas demonstrated rapid efficacy in resolving severe CMPA symptoms and restoring gut health.

Implications:

  • Early and accurate diagnosis of CMPA is critical for preventing severe complications and ensuring positive outcomes.
  • Amino acid-based formulas are a viable and effective option for managing severe CMPA when hydrolysate formulas are insufficient.
  • Distinguishing CMPA from infectious enteritis is essential for appropriate infant nutrition and management.
Abstract

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