Bloody stool in infants with gastrointestinal manifestations of cow milk protein allergy, any significance?

Abstract

Background: Cow milk protein (CMP) is the most common cause of food allergy in infants and young children. CMP allergy (CMPA) can affect more than one system, such as the skin, respiratory, or digestive systems. Gastrointestinal tract manifestations are nonspecific. One of the most important GI manifestations of CMPA is bloody stool. Purpose: This study aims to describe how many infants with GI manifestations of CMPA presented with bloody stool as it was a very annoying symptom to the family and describe how can be managed adequately. Methods: This study included 100 patients with gastrointestinal manifestations of CMPA, their ages ranged from 8 weeks to 2 years. 52 males and 48 females. All study patients were subjected to complete history, thorough clinical examination, imaging necessary, and laboratory investigations Results: bloody diarrhea was recorded in 23 patients, and 2 of them were diagnosed with food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome (FPIES). Occult blood was detected in 11 patients in the diarrhea group (33.33%), 17 patients in the GER group (47.2%), and was detected in 5 patients (83.33%) who presented constipation associated with massive abdominal distension.