Maitoallergia

Maitoallergia is an adverse immune system reaction to proteins found in cow's milk. It is one of the most common food allergies in infants and young children, although many outgrow it by school age. The immune system mistakenly identifies milk proteins, such as casein and whey, as harmful substances and triggers an allergic response.

Symptoms of maitoallergia can vary widely and may affect different parts of the body. Skin reactions, including hives, eczema, and rashes, are common. Gastrointestinal symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and blood in the stool. Respiratory symptoms, such as wheezing, coughing, and difficulty breathing, can also occur. In rare cases, maitoallergia can lead to anaphylaxis, a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention.

Diagnosis of maitoallergia typically involves a review of the child's medical history, a physical examination, and sometimes allergy testing. These tests might include skin prick tests or blood tests to detect specific antibodies to milk proteins. An oral food challenge, where small amounts of milk are given under medical supervision, may also be used to confirm the diagnosis.

The primary treatment for maitoallergia is strict avoidance of all milk and milk-containing products. This can be challenging as milk is present in many processed foods. For infants, this means using specialized hypoallergenic formulas. For older children and adults, careful label reading is essential. Many individuals with maitoallergia can tolerate products made from goat's or sheep's milk, but this should only be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as cross-reactivity can occur. As children mature, their immune systems often develop tolerance to milk proteins, allowing for the reintroduction of milk into their diet, usually under medical supervision.