Evaluation of the knowledge of cow’s milk allergy in pediatricians

Abstract

Evaluation of the Knowledge of Cow's Milk Allergy among Pediatricians C ow's milk allergy (CMA) is one of the most common food allergies to occur in infants and children under 3 years of age. The incidence in early childhood varies between 2% and 7.5%. [1] Studies carried out in different regions in Turkey have recorded an incidence of between 0.55% and 1.55%. [2-4] Clinical symptoms of CMA manifest in infants fed with breast milk generally within the first months of life, and in infants fed with formula containing cow's milk, it may be seen in just days or weeks following formula intake. [5] Clinically, skin findings reflecting an allergic reaction are observed in 50% to 60%, gastrointestinal system symptoms are seen in 50% to 60%, and respiratory system symptoms appear in 20% to 30% of CMA patients. [6, 7] Immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated reactions typically occur within 1 to 2 hours after ingestion of cow's milk, and non-IgE-mediated reactions may be seen some 2 hours after intake. Due to the role of cellular and humoral mechanisms in mixed-type reactions, the symptoms may be acute or chronic. [5] There are at least 20 protein compo-Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the level of knowledge of pediatric residents and practicing pediatricians about cow's milk allergy (CMA) and to evaluate the effect of occupational education. Methods: Pediatric residents and pediatricians were included in the study. A survey about CMA was administered to the participants before and after occupational training. Results: A total of 45 doctors were included in the study. Of the group, 31 were pediatric residents and 14 were practicing pediatricians. The pediatric resident group had a mean of 2.3 years professional experience, and the mean was 8.9 years in the pediatrician group. The mean number of correct answers of a possible score of 10 before the training was 8.32±1.37 in the resident group and 7.5±1.69 in the pediatrician group. There was no significant difference between the groups (p=0.09). The mean number of correct answers after training was 10 in the pediatric resident group, and 9.71±0.6 in the pediatrician group. The difference between the groups was statistically significant (p=0.01). Intragroup evaluation post training revealed significantly higher scores (p=0.001). Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that occupational education significantly increased the level of knowledge about CMA in both pediatric residents and practicing pediatricians.

Comparison between General Pediatricians and Other Sub-Specialty of Pediatrics Regarding Knowledge of CMPA

“…This study showed that regarding Cow Milk Symptoms Score among the studied group, 38.3% had knowledge of COMSS. This is in disagreement with Can et al (17) who evaluated Knowledge of Cow's Milk Allergy among Pediatricians. The results of their study indicated that occupational education significantly increased the level of knowledge about CMA in pediatricians.…”

Knowledge and Attitude of Community Pharmacists Toward Cow Milk Protein Allergy Complications and Treatment in Children: A Cross-Sectional Study in Sudan

“… 17 A recent comparative study in Turkey reported that Training significantly raised the degree of CMPA knowledge among pediatric residents and practicing pediatricians. 18 …”

“…17 A recent comparative study in Turkey reported that Training significantly raised the degree of CMPA knowledge among pediatric residents and practicing pediatricians. 18 The International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) states that providing patients with the necessary knowledge for the best possible use of pharmaceuticals is the responsibility of pharmacists and that patient counseling is a top priority. 19 Community Pharmacists need to have a solid understanding of CMPA to provide effective counseling.…”

Comparison of Knowledge of Lactose Intolerance and Cow’s Milk Allergy Among the Medical Students at Two Universities in Saudi Arabia

“…LI is not life-threatening, but it does affect patients’ quality of life and well-being, and they may experience extreme discomfort caused by ineffective treatment [ 12 , 15 ]. Thus, medical students must recognize its diagnosis workup and management.…”