Cow's milk protein allergy and intolerance—practical issues in diagnosis

Abstract

The main objective of this very brief review article is to draw the attention of the practicing paediatrician to key issues from a practical standpoint in the diagnosis of both cow's milk protein allergy and intolerance and, even more importantly, clinical features that help to distinguish between these two entities. It also educates the reader regarding a growing realization based on scientific evidence from the developing world that these are entities which need to be recognized even in this part of the world. This article provides useful practical tips to the practicing paediatrician regarding the specific indications and timing of referral to a paediatric gastroenterologist for the management of individuals with cow's milk protein allergy or intolerance. The article does not discuss the management of cow's milk protein allergy and intolerance.