Partially hydrolyzed 100% whey infant formula and atopic dermatitis risk reduction: a systematic review of the literature

Abstract

Numerous randomized trials and prospective intervention studies have reported a reduced incidence of atopic dermatitis (AD) among infants who were fed partially hydrolyzed 100% whey protein formula (PHF‐W) compared with infants who were fed intact cow's milk protein formula. Therefore, we conducted a systematic critical review of the literature to better understand this relation. A total of 17 clinical trials and intervention studies, representing 12 distinct study populations met our criteria for inclusion. Most of the studies incorporated study designs for which random assignment of infant formula was conducted. In virtually all studies, a reduced incidence of AD and/or atopic manifestations that included AD were observed. Throughout the first year of follow‐up, an approximate 50% risk reduction is observed. When data were pooled together from four studies of superior methodological quality that reported results specifically for AD, the cumulative incidence of AD was significantly lower (p < 0.05) among infants through at least three years of follow‐up in the PHF‐W group compared with infants in the intact cow's milk protein group. In healthy infants who are not exclusively breastfed, partially hydrolyzed 100% whey protein formula may be considered as a routine use formula alternative to help reduce the risk of atopic dermatitis. This work was partially funded by Nestle.