Understanding Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy (CMPA) in Children
Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy (CMPA) is one of the most common food allergies in infants and young children, and yet, it often goes undiagnosed or misunderstood. As a Pediatric Pulmonologist and Allergy Specialist, I encounter many concerned parents whose children present with a range of symptoms—from skin rashes and gastrointestinal issues to respiratory complications—without realizing that cow’s milk might be the underlying cause.
What is CMPA?
CMPA occurs when a child’s immune system reacts abnormally to the proteins found in cow’s milk. These allergic reactions can vary in severity and onset, depending on the type of immune response involved
Types of CMPA
There are two major types of Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy:
1. IgE-mediated CMPA
This is the immediate type of allergy. Symptoms typically appear within 2 hours of consuming cow’s milk and can include:
Red, itchy, raised rashes (hives)
- Vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain
- Swelling around the lips or eyelids
- Respiratory issues like cough, wheezing, or shortness of breath
- In rare cases, this can lead to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition involving a drop in blood pressure, a weak pulse, and fainting.
2. Non-IgE-mediated CMPA
This is the delayed type of allergy. Symptoms typically appear after 2 hours and may include:
Persistent diarrhea - Blood in stools
- Chronic eczema
These symptoms are often subtle and can be mistaken for other conditions, which makes diagnosis more challenging.
How is CMPA Diagnosed?
The diagnostic process depends on the type of CMPA suspected:
IgE-mediated CMPA is diagnosed through:
- Skin Prick Test
- ImmunoCAP Blood Test
Non-IgE-mediated CMPA does not have a specific laboratory test. It is diagnosed by:
- Eliminating cow’s milk and all dairy products from the child’s diet for 4 to 6 weeks
- Monitoring for improvement in symptoms
- Reintroducing milk under medical supervision if needed
What Should Parents Do?
If your child shows recurring gastrointestinal, skin, or respiratory symptoms—especially after consuming dairy—it’s important not to ignore them. Seek guidance from a pediatric allergy specialist. Early diagnosis and dietary management can significantly improve your child’s quality of life and prevent long-term complications.
Let’s ensure better health and comfort for every child.
- If you have questions about CMPA or suspect your child might have a food allergy, feel free to get in touch on +91 8925037710.
