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Infantile colic. Association with lactose and milk intolerance

W M Liebman

    JAMA
    |February 20, 1981
    PubMed

    Insights

    This study found that lactose intolerance and cow's milk protein intolerance are unlikely causes of infantile colic. Comprehensive tests in 56 infants with colic showed normal results, suggesting other factors are at play.

    Area of Science:

    • Pediatrics
    • Gastroenterology
    • Immunology

    Background:

    • Infantile colic is a common condition affecting many infants.
    • Potential dietary causes like lactose intolerance and cow's milk protein intolerance are often investigated.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To prospectively evaluate the role of lactose and cow's milk protein intolerance in infants presenting with apparent colic.

    Main Methods:

    • Prospective evaluation of 56 infants with apparent colic.
    • Tests included complete blood cell count, sedimentation rate, IgE levels, radioallergosorbent test (15 patients), and stool examinations (pH, reducing substances, occult blood).
    • All results were within normal age-specific limits.

    Main Results:

    • No significant abnormalities were detected in blood counts, inflammatory markers, or IgE levels.
    • Stool analyses did not reveal abnormalities suggestive of intolerance.
    • All tested infants showed results within normal limits for their age.

    Conclusions:

    • Lactose intolerance does not appear to be a significant factor in infantile colic.
    • Cow's milk protein intolerance is unlikely to be a primary cause of infantile colic in this cohort.
    • Further research may be needed to identify other causes of infantile colic.

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