P0505 DOES GOAT MILK FORMULA HAVE A PLACE IN THE MANAGEMENT OF CHILDREN WITH COW MILK ALLERGY?

Introduction: Cow milk protein causes cow milk allergy (CMA) reactions in at least 5% of children. It is implicated in the sensitisation of many more infants to other allergens. However, allergic reactions are also observed with alternative formulas based on soy and hydrolysed bovine casein or bovine whey proteins. Goat milk infant formula is an alternative that has been in use in New Zealand for over 15 years. Its use is growing internationally, particularly in Asia/Pacific. Does it have a place in the management of infants with CMA? Methods: A review of clinical studies of goat milk in CMA. Results: In infants with CMA, with a negative Skin Prick Test (SPT) to cow milk (indicating non-IgE reactions), 40–60% of infants are reported to have subsequent reactions to goat milk. This is at a similar level to soy formula. However, 70–90% of infants with CMA, with a positive SPT to cow milk (indicating IgE reactions) are reported to have reactions to goat milk. Conclusion: There is a useful place for goat milk formula in the management of the allergic infant with a negative SPT to cow milk. These infants have predominantly gastrointestinal symptoms from intolerance cow milk proteins.