Pediatria pre prax 3/2020

Allergy to cow´s milk proteins – elimination and challenge tests in pediatric practice

Allergy to cow‘s milk protein is the most common food allergy in childhood. Laboratory and skin tests are only of complementary importance in diagnosis; the only correct diagnostic procedure remains elimination-challenge tests. The aim of the article is to summarize the basic principles of elimination and subsequent exposure to cow‘s milk protein in clinical pediatric practice. Knowledge of the allergenicity of the available infant milk formulas is essential to set up the right elimination diet and treatment. Reducing the allergenicity of milk-based foods due to heat treatment and processing can be used in recommendations for home exposure.

Keywords: allergy, milk, elimination, challenge test, hydrolysis